Organic architecture creates harmony between living spaces and the natural world around it. Designers utilize large portals to the outdoors with an orientation to views or geologic features, plus other elements inspired by natural forms.


Some designs have been more enduring than others. 


This week, several homes with outstanding design features made the list. These include a Steve Dodd home in exclusive Lake of the Pines and a stunning mid-century Tician Papachristou off Lee Hill Rd. 


Note: It’s spring break for BVSD. Many potential buyers are out of town, which is why this week is normally a slow one for Boulder real estate. With less potential competition, it can also be a great weekend to get out and see some houses.  


120 new listings hit the market. Only 7 made my list. 

For private showings and discussion of market conditions, valuation, and negotiation strategy, call Osman at 303.746.6896. My goal is to help you make a smarter real estate decision. Learn more.

Sold Listings of Note 

430 Christmas Tree Dr | $2.3MM | Pics and Details
A gorgeous Hobart Wagener designed mid-century modern home in Flatiron Park, just below Flagstaff Mtn. Originally constructed for Wolfgang Thron, a mathematician and professor at CU, the home features four bedrooms and three baths on a quarter acre lot. It also has great views, a gourmet kitchen, tasteful indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, and exceptional design touches throughout. 


Full disclosure: We represented the buyers of this lovely home.  

4242 Greenbriar Blvd #31 | $723K | Pics and Details
A larger three bedroom, three bath Shanahan Ridge town-home with a typical floor plan and some updates. The value in this property is in the open space views and access.  


Views are worth a premium in Boulder, the equivalent of water-front property in other parts of the country.  The value-add is perhaps as much as 5-10% depending on the quality of the views and whether the structure is built to feature the views. 


This unit sold for 7.1% over asking. 



Fresh Listings

7811 N. Lakeridge Trail | $2.35MM | Pics and Details
Steve Dodd designed this attractive home in the 1980’s to both highlight and blend into the natural world around it. Some of the finishes and window treatments need a refresh, but the philosophy that led to this beautiful home’s design still shines through. People often move to Colorado for the outdoor experience, and homes designed to flow into their surroundings are well received by Boulder buyers. They often sell quickly. It’s well worth a visit. 


Due diligence: Lake of the Pines is an enclave of luxury homes, set in the lower foothills, just north of Boulder proper. The neighborhood comes with amenities such as recreational access to Allen’s Lake but also some restrictions that should be carefully reviewed. 

875 Utica Ave | $1.35MM | Pics and Details
Well located – west of Broadway, south facing, close to Wonderland Lake open space and a short walk to Lucky’s retail center. Built in the late 1980’s, the interior could use a refresh, but the layout should work for most buyers. Although 875 Utica Ave is not as visually striking as some of the others that made the list this week, it’s curb appeal is decent. The deck and mud-room could be better integrated. 

1912 Andrew Alden St. | $1.1MM | Pics and Details
For buyers who love contemporary design, I continue to strongly recommend a visit to the Prospect neighborhood in South Longmont. Over the years, this neighborhood has really come into its own with mature trees, restaurants, shops, and a family friendly atmosphere. 1912 Andrew Alden Street is centrally located in the neighborhood, generously sized, and the carriage house has a strong rental history – a plus for buyers who want to offset their ownership cost. 


Due diligence: Longmont now has short-term rental ordinances. If your investment thesis depends on short-term rental income, you may want to look in unincorporated Boulder county. Also, does anyone know who Andrew Alden might be? The most famous Andrew Alden I could find is a geology writer from the Bay Area. 

100 S 34th Street | $935K | Pics and Details
Soup to nuts, expect to invest at least $300K to add a second story addition to a basic ranch in South Boulder. With nicer finishes and a remodel of the first floor, your budget will likely approach or exceed $400K. This is why complete, turn-key pop-tops are in high demand – especially on quiet, interior streets like 34th. This particular example appears well executed, with tasteful design and finishes. It will likely sell very quickly. 


Note: Curious about pop-tops in Martin Acres? Check out our Map. 

25 Crooked Spur | $690K | Pics and Details
After considerable debate, this one made the list. The post and beam interior is tasteful and the home has excellent views from living areas and outdoor entertainment spaces. The pantry/fridge room is a little bizarre, and the kitchen could use a complete update. But, at this price point, it’s a compelling value proposition for a functional, reasonably sized house. The location is only a few minutes up Lee Hill Road.  


Update: I took buyers to see it, and the home shows much better in person than the photographs suggest. The kitchen is larger, and the setting is far more attractive. I will be surprised if it lasts through the weekend. 


Pro-tip: If you’re going to remodel, budget for larger windows to maximize the setting and views from this home. Also you’ll probably want to take down the trees that are immediately next to the home to increase fire defensibility.  

109 Sentinel Rock | $625K | Pics and Details
Wow, this is a must see. The Bowman House is a stunning three bedroom, two bath home from the mid-60’s with a fascinating design by Tician Papachristou. The views are exceptional. The features are captivating. Without a doubt, a spectacular property. 


Due diligence: The home has substantial deferred maintenance, but the re-investment is likely well worth it. On our visit, we noted signs of water damage, a bowing roof line, and frankly – every finish needs attention. If your budget is not in the range of an additional ~$200K of follow-on capital, you should probably pass. Also, there’s only a carport. However ,with 2.4 acres of land, there should be room for a garage.  

Worth a Second Look 

3380 Folsom #211 | $185K | Pics and Details
Affordable housing sells itself in Boulder, but due to the oddities of the system, this one is currently available to qualified buyers without needing to go through the selection process (i.e. lottery). A market value unit would be priced at least $150K higher. The location is excellent, with easy access to bike paths and retail. The layout is also oriented so the bedrooms are on the quieter side of the complex. 

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