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Listed for $1.8 million, 3033 Regent Street in Berkeley, California, is a unique property that combines historic Craftsman architecture with Zen-inspired design and a significant legacy of social activism. This four-bedroom home, on the market for the first time in over two decades, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Bay Area's cultural history. Located in the desirable Elmwood district, the residence spans 2,266 square feet on a 3,212-square-foot lot.
This dwelling is a quintessential Craftsman-style home, a architectural tradition known for its handcrafted quality and use of natural materials. Built in 1929, the home boasts original features like stunning hardwood floors, multilight windows, and picture rails. These are complemented by recent custom additions, including shoji screens (translucent sliding panels traditionally used in Japanese interiors) and fir millwork crafted by a master woodworker. The roofline itself subtly echoes Asian influences, contributing to what the listing agent describes as a "Craftsman with a Japanese, Zen twist." The flow of the home, from the updated kitchen to the formal living areas and a family room that opens to a sunny deck, creates a warm and functional environment.
The home’s sense of peace is enhanced by abundant natural light, skylit bathrooms, and upper-level bedrooms with views of the Berkeley Hills. A key feature is the landscaped backyard, designed as a Zen garden. Incorporating elements like bamboo, maple trees, and river rocks, this space is designed for tranquility and entertainment. Every detail, from the custom woodwork to the harmonious indoor-outdoor flow, reinforces a thoughtful and calming atmosphere, making it stand out in the Berkeley real estate market.
Beyond its architecture, the home is notable for its history. From 1993, it was owned by Lyle “Butch” Wing and Jean Yonemura Wing, two respected advocates for social justice. Butch Wing was a founding co-chair of Asian Americans for Jesse Jackson and an early member of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, hosting civil rights leaders like Rev. Jesse Jackson in the home. Jean Yonemura Wing was a celebrated educator and researcher, recognized for her pioneering work on racial achievement gaps in urban schools. Her father, Mas Yonemura, was a Japanese-American civil rights advocate who helped restore the legal status of internees after WWII. This legacy makes the property a home with a profound social purpose.
The home’s location in the Elmwood district is a major advantage. This area is known for its beautiful, tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and charming commercial district with shops and eateries. The neighborhood offers excellent access to transportation, including BART, the Bay Bridge, and recreational trails. Elmwood itself has a rich history of community engagement, adding another layer to the property's appeal. The combination of a prime location, unique architecture, and historical significance creates a compelling value proposition.
For potential buyers, this property represents more than a house; it is a residence steeped in history. Key considerations include:
Purchasing a home with such a distinct character and history requires an appreciation for its unique story and architectural merit. Based on our experience assessment, properties of this caliber in sought-after Berkeley neighborhoods represent a significant, and historically meaningful, real estate investment.
