Neighbors Feuding Over Belvedere CA McMansion

McMansions, Hummer homes, starter castles, megahouses – or whatever you call super-sized homes in your neck of the woods – were, I thought, on their way out as the popular trend has been wending its way back to mid-century sensibilities.  Not so, apparently in Belvedere CA, where two high-rollers are embroiled in a fierce battle over a proposed 10,280 square foot home.  Having already been scaled down from the original 11,523 sq. feet, the project – if it goes forward – will create the fourth largest home in Belvedere.

A key issue is that the new home will have a negative impact on views from neighboring homes – and anyone who knows Belvedere will understand that concern. Real estate in Belvedere CA is highly valued for the stunning views it provides of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Bay, and Mount Tamalpais.  Apparently the proposed project will rise to a height of 44 feet – well over Belvedere’s city limit of 36 feet, and will block the view from at least one neighboring home.  The square-footage will be over the city’s allowed 4,850 – requiring variances before the plans can be approved. The Belvedere Planning Commission reviewed the issue on March 18, declined to make a decision, and will reconsider it again on April 15.

I’m curious to hear your thoughts on this issue – and what impact McMansions have had on real estate in your area.  As a Marin County mid-century modern real estate specialist, I prefer the modernist attitude of manageable size and minimal embellishment.  That is to say, I like a small, sleek house and wonder what a person would do with over 10,000 sq. feet of living space.  I suppose if you do a lot of entertaining and have many houseguests the square-footage would come in handy…  At any rate, personal preferences aside, it will be interesting to see what the city planning commission decides later this month.  Whatever the decision, someone is going to be very unhappy.
 

• Rate this Post!

  Select Your Rating:

  • 5 Stars (Excellent!)
  • 4 Stars
  • 3 Stars
  • 2 Stars
  • 1 Stars (Poor)

• Share this Post

  Share With A Friend:

  Your Name Your Email

  Friend's Name Friend's Email

  Optional Message

  Send

• Print
• Social Bookmarking

  Add to Bookmarks: