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True California Modernism
$4,000,000
335 Highland Avenue, San Rafael
The T. Carson O'Connell House
Designed by Charles Warren Callister, 1954
Property Photos
Home Details
335 Highland Ave
This singular 1950s residence is a warm and expressive example of California modernism. Shaped in direct response to its terraced hillside setting beneath a mature oak canopy, the home unfolds across staggered levels that follow the land and deepen its connection to the surrounding landscape. A dramatic roofline, exposed wood structure, original redwood posts, rhythmic vertical window bays, and carefully placed glazing draw in filtered light and frame the natural setting.
Inside, the home reveals warmth, texture, and architectural character, with original Philippine mahogany, wide-plank white oak flooring, and a soaring living room that opens toward expansive views. The kitchen pairs the home’s mid-century character with a Gaggenau appliance suite, while a generous view deck extends the living experience outdoors and strengthens the connection between the interior spaces and the surrounding hillside.
Held by longtime owners for over six decades, this architecturally significant residence presents a rare opportunity to steward a home of lasting presence, material richness, and originality.
Inside, the home reveals warmth, texture, and architectural character, with original Philippine mahogany, wide-plank white oak flooring, and a soaring living room that opens toward expansive views. The kitchen pairs the home’s mid-century character with a Gaggenau appliance suite, while a generous view deck extends the living experience outdoors and strengthens the connection between the interior spaces and the surrounding hillside.
Held by longtime owners for over six decades, this architecturally significant residence presents a rare opportunity to steward a home of lasting presence, material richness, and originality.
Property Tour
Iconic Architecture
About Warren Callister
Callister was one of Northern California’s most distinctive modern architects, known for work that felt deeply rooted in place. After World War II, he moved to the Bay Area and began a career that would span private residences, churches, planned communities, and civic projects.
His architecture does not fit neatly into standard mid-century modern categories. Rather than pursue a purely glass-and-steel expression, Callister brought a warmer, more tactile sensibility to modern design, drawing from wood, craft, regional traditions, and the character of each site.
The T. Carson O’Connell House reflects that broader vision. More than a period example, it stands as a rare residential work where Callister’s regional modernism feels especially personal, expressive, and fully realized.
His architecture does not fit neatly into standard mid-century modern categories. Rather than pursue a purely glass-and-steel expression, Callister brought a warmer, more tactile sensibility to modern design, drawing from wood, craft, regional traditions, and the character of each site.
The T. Carson O’Connell House reflects that broader vision. More than a period example, it stands as a rare residential work where Callister’s regional modernism feels especially personal, expressive, and fully realized.
Property Details
Bedrooms
3
Bathrooms
2
Square Footage
1,866 sq ft
Year Built
1954
Parking
3 Carport Spaces
Lot Size
1 Acre
Architectural Photography
by Bénédicte Lassalle
Floor Plans
Floor plan
Neighborhood
San Rafael emerges as a captivating city where architectural innovation meets historical depth, embodied most dramatically by the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Marin Civic Center. Completed in 1962, this futuristic landmark transcends typical municipal architecture, its sci-fi-worthy design serving as a metaphorical and literal beacon of the city's forward-thinking spirit. The downtown area continues this legacy of innovation through active redevelopment efforts, with the Smith Rafael Film Center anchoring a cultural landscape that celebrates artistic diversity and community engagement.
The city's culinary and cultural landscape is as diverse as its architectural heritage. Fourth Street pulses with international flavor, offering a gastronomic journey that spans continents—sushi, Indian, Thai, Italian, Mexican, and Puerto Rican cuisines coexist within blocks, reflecting San Rafael's multicultural character. Thursday afternoon farmers markets animate the street with local produce, live music, and a sense of communal vibrancy that transforms urban space into a dynamic gathering point.
Architecturally, San Rafael offers a remarkable residential tapestry. From the sought-after midcentury Eichler homes of Terra Linda to the Victorian structures surrounding Dominican College and the custom homes of Lucas Valley, the city presents a nuanced residential landscape that provides diversity in both style and price point.
Set between Mount Tamalpais and San Pablo Bay, San Rafael reflects the many layers of Marin: historic neighborhoods, landmark architecture, an evolving downtown, and easy access to the open space that define Northern California living.
The city's culinary and cultural landscape is as diverse as its architectural heritage. Fourth Street pulses with international flavor, offering a gastronomic journey that spans continents—sushi, Indian, Thai, Italian, Mexican, and Puerto Rican cuisines coexist within blocks, reflecting San Rafael's multicultural character. Thursday afternoon farmers markets animate the street with local produce, live music, and a sense of communal vibrancy that transforms urban space into a dynamic gathering point.
Architecturally, San Rafael offers a remarkable residential tapestry. From the sought-after midcentury Eichler homes of Terra Linda to the Victorian structures surrounding Dominican College and the custom homes of Lucas Valley, the city presents a nuanced residential landscape that provides diversity in both style and price point.
Set between Mount Tamalpais and San Pablo Bay, San Rafael reflects the many layers of Marin: historic neighborhoods, landmark architecture, an evolving downtown, and easy access to the open space that define Northern California living.
Ben Peterson
Modern Homes Realty
Realtor
- DRE:
- #02110773
- Mobile:
- 650-374-5524
- Office:
- 6503745524
www.benpetersonhomes.com
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Ben Peterson
Modern Homes Realty
Realtor
- DRE:
- #02110773
- Mobile:
- 650-374-5524
- Office:
- 6503745524