Vintage Farmhouse

The much sought-after neighborhood of Elmwood has a rich architectural history. Early 20th-century houses, estates, and some of the more notable homes designed by prominent turn-of-the-century Bay Area architect Julia Morgan can be found in this neighborhood.  The local shopping district centered on the intersection of College and Ashby avenues is a bustling hive of activity, featuring an array of gourmet eateries, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Berkeley Bowl grocery store attracts chefs and home cooks from. near and far and is a mere two blocks away, while Whole Foods is also conveniently located around the corner.

Residents of Elmwood also enjoy an easy walk to public transportation, a library, and parks. For an only-in-Elmwood experience, visit Mrs. Dalloway's, a shop that combines a bookstore and garden supplies, or Rialto Cinemas Elmwood, a Berkeley city landmark that houses a three-screen cinema. In terms of hyperlocal culture, the Julia Morgan Theatre offers camps and classes as well as performances of music, dance, and theater throughout the year.

Home to one of the most prestigious universities in the country, Berkeley offers the intellectual and cultural stimulation from its campus - which is within walking distance of downtown. Many Berkeley neighborhoods were established in the 1920s, with quiet, tree-lined streets, brown-shingled homes, and lushly landscaped yards. Neighborhood green spaces abound throughout Berkeley, from small community gardens to the Berkeley Rose Garden, which boasts more than 3,000 rose bushes. The gem of the area is 2,000-acre Tilden Regional Park, with its miles of biking and hiking trails and the naturally landscaped swimming hole at Lake Anza.