About the house

Built in 1914 by an unknown architect, this unique home was originally built as a chemistry lab. Made entirely out of poured-in-place concrete as a single open space, the structure feels spacious and full of light despite its small size and heavy building material. The home is perched on top of a large, castle-like retaining wall which forms the private outdoor deck.

Beginning in 2017, the home was reimagined by Noah Guy (Joshuvela Studio) and Aysia Stieb and completed in 2022. The remodel was guided by the intention of creating a quiet sanctuary that they could share with others. Staying true to the materials during the entire process, the concrete interior lying underneath a century of paint was revealed and the original mahogany windows were carefully refinished. For the single interior division, we choose a transparent multi-wall polycarbonate to create the structure that forms the bathroom on one side, and lets light into the kitchen on the other. The material palette is grey concrete, dark mahogany, oak and walnut wood and black, stainless and powder-coated steel.

The original architects created a building perfectly suited for an indoor/outdoor space. However, with window technology in 1914 not what it is today, that vision was never realized until now. We expanded and interpreted the needs of the space with a set of gorgeous, large folding doors leading to a smooth mahogany deck. Once out on the deck you are surrounded by towering Fir, Redwood and Oak trees creating the perfect setting for quiet contemplation and relaxation.

The kitchen is a blend of modern domestic design and commercial function. Tall black cabinets create a clean and organized block on one side and custom stainless commercial fixtures provide utilitarian work surfaces on the other. The gas range and spacious layout enables cooks and food stylists to feel their creative energy.

Interior furniture includes classics from Le Corbusier, Eames, USM, Hans Wegner and custom pieces by Noah, as well as vintage finds.

Work with us

La Sala di Studio is available for day rentals. Our location is ideal for select film and still shoots such as cookbooks, products, interviews as well as executive off-sites, meetings, or day retreats. In addition to the inspiring setting, the space offers incredible natural stillness for having your most important collaborative meetings and focused discussions.


Due to the 10” thick concrete walls, outside sound becomes nearly imperceptible when the doors are shut. Likewise, your important meetings will not be heard from the exterior. The space is approximately 1200 sq feet with an additional 600 sq foot deck. The ‘Painting Studio’ at the bottom of our property is a 450 sq foot standalone building that can be rented in addition to the house.

Portfolio

Melanie Abrantes

MycoWorks x Nick Fouquet

Joshuvela

Location

The home is located in a quiet residential pocket of North Berkeley — a stones throw from the UC Berkeley campus. The house is situated on a hillside surrounded by mature trees, creating a setting that feels secluded in nature yet only a 30 minute drive to San Francisco.

We offer an overnight rental on our property called ‘The Painting Studio’ in a separate building which can be rented as an additional space together with the house. The Painting Studio accommodates 2 people overnight and does not allow access to La Sala di Studio if booked alone. La Sala di Studio is a private residence when not rented during the day. You can book The Painting Studio separately or inquire about adding it to your day rental.

Contact

To inquire about bookings, please tell us as much as possible about your needs. Our current availability is shown in the calendar below.

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