AN Exquisite craftsman

Piedmont, a two-square-mile city within the borders of Oakland, was incorporated in 1907 and was originally a holiday destination for well-heeled families looking for warmer weather than San Francisco's chilly summers provided. Today, these large, estate-like homes are still standing in the center of Piedmont, but many of these properties were subdivided in the 40's and 50's to make way for a growing year-round population with more modest means.

Homes in Piedmont now range from estate properties with expansive grounds to more modest homes on the edges of town. Well-manicured landscapes prevail and the city’s stringent permitting guidelines ensure all homes maintain their original flavor.

The commercial area of the town is small, featuring several banks, a gas station, and Mulberry’s Market. The heartbeat of Piedmont, this  specialty-food store features ready-made meals that cater to gourmet taste buds, and is the frequent morning coffee stop for parents, as well as an after-school hot spot for kids.

Piedmont’s neighboring proximity to Oakland’s many big-city amenities ensures Piedmonters will not miss out on the latest restaurants or first-run movies, and its several well-maintained parks and playing fields provide ample opportunity for sports year-round.

The sense of community is strong, as witnessed by the large turnout for the annual Fourth of July parade that happens each year down Highland Avenue. The Piedmont Recreation Center offers a central gathering place for residents. Available for rental, it is a frequent setting for community events and parties. The beautiful grounds provide a wonderful place to gather, and the wooded trail connecting the Community Center to the high school playing fields is the best place to take your dog for a walk.

A casual carpool zone on Oakland Avenue, along with proximity to Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District buses, offer workers convenient commute options. Off-peak hours can place you in downtown San Francisco within 15 minutes.

Pride in community involvement, coveted K-12 public schools, movie nights in the park, the Harvest Festival, the Tree-lighting Ceremony, village living surrounded by a thriving metropolis, easy access to downtown Oakland or San Francisco, and a new generation representing a more diverse population are just a few of the reasons people flock to Piedmont.