The historic midcentury modern Oakland home, once owned by jazz legend Dave Brubeck, is now on the market for $3 million. Located at 6630 Heartwood Drive, this house, popularly called the "tree house," was designed by renowned "Case Study House" architect Beverley D. Thorne in 1954. This unique design incorporates steel framing, resulting in a residence appearing to hover 16 feet above the ground, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes
Not only known for its architectural prowess, the house is also renowned for its former owner, jazz icon Dave Brubeck. Within these walls, Brubeck composed hits such as "Take Five" and practiced with the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Thorne designed the living space to incorporate the surroundings, with a rock outcrop extending through the center of the home and panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, a feature highlighted by Red Oak Realty's listing.
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes
Situated in the Montclair neighborhood, the 2,652-square-foot Oakland home has plenty to offer potential buyers, including four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two fireplaces, and to breakfast bar subtly. Thorne's design maximized natural lighting, a feature Brubeck once described as "perfect." When Brubeck moved to the East Coast, he commissioned Thorne to design his Connecticut home, including the unique indoor rock feature.
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes
The Cheney family has owned the Oakland tree house since 1974, and it hasn't been listed since. The home remains a testament to Thorne's innovative spirit, which sparked debates about which was more influential: the house or its famous occupant. In a 2006 interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, Thorne admitted that the home's unique qualities captivated the post-war American public.
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes
Over the past seven decades, the Oakland tree house has had various names, including Heartwood House and Brubeck West. It was featured on Ed Sullivan's show in 1960, showcasing its intertwining history of music and architectural innovation. Even after Brubeck's passing in 2012, the house continues to fascinate enthusiasts.
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes
Source: Red Oak Realty / Emma Morris Homes