A Bay Area Home Crafted by Cult-Favorite Architect Roger Lee Lists for $1.8 Million

Though Roger Lee has been called “one of the Bay Area’s great forgotten architects,” the late Chinese-American modernist architect influenced many younger designers and his work was recognized with an Award of Merit by the American Institute of Architects. He also left Hawaii, Nevada, and predominantly Northern California with some 100 or so homes, many of which have waiting lists of potential buyers should their owners opt to sell. Now one of those sought-after 1950s creations, albeit one without a waiting list, has just popped up on the market in a desirable hillside neighborhood of East Oakland, asking $1.8 million.

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“While Roger Lee may not be as widely recognized outside of California, his influence on midcentury-modern architecture is undeniable,” says Ary Assadi, who holds the listing with Mark Fleckles, both of Bay Area Modern Real Estate. “His homes, celebrated for their clean lines and seamless integration with nature, are rarely available for sale.”

Nestled amid a gated parcel of land spanning less than a quarter of an acre and last sold in winter 2011 for $750,000, this particular structure is painted in eye-catching orange and yellow shades and stacked atop a two-car garage. Inside, three bedrooms and two baths are filtered across a little more than 1,800 square feet of multi-level living space boasting a mix of hardwood and terrazzo floors, the original wood paneling, built-ins, and high exposed wood-beam ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook panoramic views of the Bay Area, while a courtyard patio, deck, and balconies provide idyllic indoor/outdoor environs.

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Among the many highlights are a main-level living room that has an open-hearth fireplace sporting a large canopy hood and an adjacent dining area that connects to an updated kitchen outfitted with stainless appliances. There’s also a second-floor bedroom that’s been converted into an office space, as well as a top-floor primary suite that comes complete with a private balcony, a walk-in closet, and a remodeled bath spotlighted by dual vanities and a spacious glass-encased shower.

Click here for more photos of the Roger Lee-designed house.

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