3031 Kalmia St, San Diego, CA 92104
3 Bedrooms + Library l 2 Baths l 1,792 esf
The Observatory Home
Designed by renowned architects; a fascinating and historical legacy; 100% unique character and overflowing personality; plus, its own officially published name: Welcome to the Observatory House!Located in idyllic Burlingame, this one-of-a-kind home was originally built in 1922 as a craftsman bungalow. Today, 3031 Kalmia St. is known as the “Observatory House” for its stunningly unique 26’ stucco and marble clad tower. Distinguished architects Rene Davids and Christine Killory (the homeowners at the time) constructed the tower in the late 80s as a library/reading room and observatory. The 19’ library portion has 145 floor-to-ceiling cubbies; enough room for 5,000 books plus small windows to admit light without compromising privacy. A dumbwaiter moves items from the ground floor up to the reading room
/office and continues all the way up to the top of the tower. There is even a slit skylight in the ceiling that perfectly frames the North Star! A steel staircase leads you up to the cozy reading room with a built-in desk and neighborhood views. Out the Dutch door are not one, but two observation decks! Breathtaking vistas abound, the taller of the two decks providing a complete 360 degree panorama. It’s no wonder the
Observatory House has won five national and regional awards, including an AIA Honor Award and San Diego Home & Garden Home of theYear. Recently painted inside, the home retains many original characteristics, including built-ins, a wood burning fireplace, gumwood crown moulding, maple hardwood floors (recently refinished), and five sets of gumwood French doors that encircle a courtyard. The kitchen features Birdseye Maple cabinetry, granite counters, slate tile, and a conversation bench with storage. The hall bathroom has been updated with the same cabinetry and slate tile, while the primary ensuite bathroom has most of its charmingly original elements, including a cast iron pedestal sink and vintage tile. Every window is original to the home. In the yard, a 100+ year old ficus tree is the backdrop for a gazebo, custom koi pond with water feature, and hot tub. The detached 2-car garage can be accessed from both sides and houses the W&D. The
driveway can fit an additional 4+ cars. The whole home exterior was recently re-stuccoed and the observatory tower painted inside and out. Sandwiched between North Park and South Park, Burlingame is famous for its fanciful house styles and trademark pink sidewalks that date back to 1912. This home is a short walk away from a plethora of restaurants, boutiques, entertainment, and transportation. Own a piece of historic San Diego!
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