Midcentury modern masterpiece on market for first time asks $1.8M

A landmarked home designed by the architect Donald Olsen, who studied under Walter Gropius at Harvard, has come on the market for the first time in Berkeley, California.

Designed in 1954 for himself and his family, the Donald and Helen Olsen House is an incredible example of the International Style and features a cantilevering glass-box structure that emerges from its sloping, tree-filled site, an open floorplan, and other modern elements that make it feel timeless still today.

The 2,205-square-foot residence, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a City of Berkeley Historic Landmark, includes three bedrooms, three baths, a painting studio, and storage over two floors, with an entry featuring an original mural by artist Claire Falkenstein. A period kitchen opens up to a terrace.

Over the years, the Olsens have used the home not only as a family retreat but also as a drafting office, studio, and a salon of sorts, hosting many prominent members of the arts community. Located at 771 San Diego Road, the incredible property is offered at $1.795 million.

Courtesy of Bebe McRae/The Grubb Co.