5050 Alpine Road, Portola Valley, CA 94028 5050alpine.tumblr.com | www.5050alpine.com Sited on one of the Peninsula’s largest privately owned parcels, this grand-scale Florentine villa is the embodiment of grandeur, allure, and elegance. Let’s start from the beginning. HISTORY Designed by noted architect George Schastey and commissioned by Herbert E. Law in the early 1920s, this trophy residence took the skill and craftsmanship of more than 100 artisans to complete the vision. The realization was an intense labor, taking four years due to the uncompromising attention to detail. Law and Schastey’s collaboration had an ambitious intent — to authentically recreate the rhythm and savor of a Florentine villa right here in Northern California. Law was dedicated, making countless trips abroad to Europe, hand-selecting lavish appointments and precious materials, including brass hardware from France, marble and onyx from Italy, and fountains and wrought iron from Florence. Artifacts from churches and palaces throughout Europe were reclaimed, finding their new home at Lauriston. It is an enduring and revered triumph of accomplishment with a lasting appeal that cannot be reproduced. THE APPROACH: The entrance to Villa Lauriston is up a long sweeping lane, saluted by respectful stands of redwoods and whispers of streams and wildlife. It is at the end of this private drive where the milestone manor emerges, guarded by a deep broad lawn, carved stone figures, and a formal arrival …
