Modesto 'Time Capsule' - Page 2

The 2,104-square-foot, single-story residence features a flat roof and unpainted horizontal brick. Featuring three bedrooms and two full baths, the home has been well maintained and is ideal for a family, or work-at-home couple. Originality is a plus here, with only a handful of updates, such as carpeting, appliances, and some windows.

Tropical plants line a lushly planted entryway that welcomes guests through a front door paired with a Venetian glass sidelight. A high level of craftsmanship is evident from the minute you step into the home.

Vaulted ceilings and a fireplace crafted from horizontal brick are a highlight of the spacious living room, with dark beams adding contrast. Blonde floor-to-ceiling, built-in bookshelves and cabinets line one wall, with shelving in the dining and family room as well.

Window walls infuse the living room with light, with sliders leading out to the garden areas. It's nice to see the unpainted brick, as well as the unpainted wood throughout the home still showing off its wood grain. Original period light fixtures also add style and authenticity to the mid-century décor.

Sleek wood countertops and overhead cabinets provide storage space in the kitchen and dining room. Bedrooms and baths are a good size, with convenient double sinks.

Downstairs is an additional 500-square-foot bonus area with a half bath. This flex space can easily be reimagined as an art studio or exercise room. Parking is convenient thanks to an attached, two-car garage with a newer door.

Architect Raymond Christian Abst, now age 99, currently lives in the coastal town of Jenner-by-the-Sea, near Sonoma.

Born in Salem, Oregon, Abst served as a Lieutenant in the United States Naval Reserve during World War II. Following his service time, he attended the University of Oregon, graduating with a degree in architecture in 1950. After an apprenticeship with designer/draftsman John Bomberger, Abst moved into a position with the firm Bomberger & Abst.

During his career, Abst lent a discerning design eye to commercial and institutional buildings, in addition to farm labor housing and custom residential projects. His portfolio includes the agriculture and science buildings at Modesto Junior College, Memorial Hospital Convalescent Unit, and Dan Mellis stores, all built during the 1950s.

In the 1960s and 70s, he designed the Fitch-Fulford office building, Grace M. Davis High School, Modesto Junior College pedestrian mall, and the Great Valley Museum of Natural History at College and Stoddard.

Of the Bare residence on Dorrington Court, Arakelian says, "This is your opportunity to live in a quiet cul-de-sac, and have one of Modesto's most unique properties, in its original glory, all to call your own."

For more info and photos of the Bare house, click here.