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256 The Uplands, Berkeley, California 94705, Berkeley, - bed, bath

home-pic
ACTIVE$2,900,000
256 The Uplands, Berkeley, California 94705
4Beds
3Baths
3,516Sqft
16,512Lot
Year Built
1967
Close
-
List price
$2.9M
Original List price
$2.9M
Price/Sqft
-
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
41116364
Home ConditionFair
Features
Good View: Trees/Woods
Patio
ViewTrees/Woods

About this home

Architectural legacy meets California tranquility in this AIA-recognized residence by acclaimed architect Donald Olsen. Built in 1967 for his close friend David Ruth, this mid-century modern architecture includes a friendly floorplan with 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, showcasing Olsen’s signature integration of geometry, light, and nature. Built on a secluded knoll-lot of approximately 0.38 acres around a magnificent heritage coastal live oak and perched above a serene creek, the home captures the essence of Berkeley’s architectural and natural beauty. Thoughtfully preserved and meticulously improved, the property features walls of glass, original hardwood floors, seismic upgrades, landscape renovations by RDG Landscape Architects including a full native-plant and creek restoration, illuminated walkways, and the exterior patio is embossed with San Francisco cobblestones. A custom O2 Treehouse floats among the oaks, adding playfulness to the refined design. Set in the prestigious Claremont neighborhood, this property offers ADU or multi-generational potential and effortless access to the Claremont Club & Spa, Rockridge BART, and freeway access.

Nearby schools

8/10
Chabot Elementary School
Public,•K-5•0.4mi
7/10
Kaiser Elementary School
Public,•K-5•0.4mi
6/10
John Muir Elementary School
Public,•K-5•0.4mi
7/10
Emerson Elementary School
Public,•K-5•0.8mi
6/10
Leconte Elementary School
Public,•K-5•1.3mi
6/10
Malcolm X Elementary School
Public,•K-5•1.9mi
6/10
Claremont Middle School
Public,•6-8•1.0mi
8/10
Willard Middle School
Public,•6-8•1.2mi
7/10
Oakland Technical High School
Public,•9-12•1.8mi
2/10
Oakland International High School
Public,•9-12•1.9mi
8/10
Berkeley High School
Public,•9-12•2.0mi
2/10
Fremont High
Public,•9-12•5.8mi

Price History

Date
Event
Price
10/31/25
Listing
$2,900,000
12/10/15
Sold
$2,400,000
Neighborhood Comparison
 SubjectAverage HomeNeighbourhood Ranking (49 Listings)
Beds43
52%
Baths33
50%
Square foot3,5162,524
82%
Lot Size16,5126,200
94%
Price$2.9M$2.06M
84%
Price per square foot$825$907
38%
Built year19679610962
72%
HOA
Days on market6156
2%
Condition Rating
Fair
This architecturally significant home, built in 1967, has been meticulously preserved and improved with significant updates such as seismic upgrades and landscape renovations. The overall aesthetic is clean, stylish, and well-maintained, with beautiful original hardwood floors and modern light fixtures in the main living areas. The bathrooms appear to have been updated more recently with modern fixtures and finishes. However, the kitchen, while functional and clean, features appliances (particularly the range and microwave) and cabinet styles that appear dated and are not consistent with a full, recent renovation within the last 5-15 years. The property's age (57 years) and the implied age of some core systems, as noted in the property analysis's weakness, suggest that while well-cared for, some major components show signs of being outdated, aligning with the 'Fair' condition criteria.
Pros & Cons

Pros

Architectural Pedigree: An AIA-recognized Donald Olsen mid-century modern residence, offering significant architectural value and unique design.
Prime Claremont Location: Situated in the prestigious Claremont neighborhood with excellent access to amenities, Rockridge BART, and freeways.
Expansive & Secluded Natural Lot: A generous 0.38-acre knoll-lot featuring a heritage oak, serene creek, and professional landscape restoration, providing privacy and natural beauty.
Thoughtful Preservation & Key Upgrades: Meticulously preserved original features complemented by crucial modern improvements like seismic upgrades and professional landscape renovations.
ADU Potential & Distinctive Amenities: Offers potential for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or multi-generational living, enhanced by a custom O2 Treehouse.

Cons

Age of Core Structure: While updated, the 1967 build year suggests potential for older systems (e.g., plumbing, electrical, HVAC) that may require future attention or upgrades not explicitly detailed as replaced.
Specialized Aesthetic Appeal: The distinct mid-century modern design, while celebrated, caters to a specific taste and might not appeal to all potential buyers, potentially narrowing the market.
Ongoing Maintenance for Unique Features: The large, natural lot with a creek, heritage tree, and custom treehouse, while beautiful, could entail higher ongoing maintenance costs and effort.

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