A nearly 700-acre property in Central California rounds up an impressive series of attributes we’ve rarely seen, even in significantly higher price brackets.
Located in Friant, California, less than 30 minutes from downtown Fresno, the $5,620,000 property offers acres upon acres of stunning natural beauty, multiple residences, and several standout amenities — promising the “ultimate rural lifestyle”.
But don’t let the “rural” part fool you.
The property is as refined as it is welcoming, and comes with notable architectural pedigree, in the form of a striking main house designed by renowned architect Gene Zellmer.
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Three land parcels totaling close to 700 acres
Comprised of three separate land parcels — one spanning approximately 545 acres, the other 80 acres, and the smallest, 75 acres — the remarkable property offers a unique opportunity in one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world.
Listed for $5,620,000 with Sarah Hedrick of Realty Concepts, Ltd, the sprawling property has countless potential uses, ranging from agricultural or equestrian pursuits to larger-scale developments, including a luxury retreat.
Anchored by a striking architectural home
At the core of the property lies a primary residence designed by architect Gene Zellmer, celebrated for his organic, eco-friendly designs.
One of the earliest pioneers in green buildings and environmental designs, Zellmer started employing energy-saving below-grade work in the mid-’60s, incorporating innovative building techniques well before they became mainstream.
He’s also credited with designing the world’s first applications of structural fabric on a department store, church, office and residence, with his store design earning him a shoutout for one of the Five Best Architectural Designs by TIME Magazine in 1981.
With an elevated Hacienda feel
Reminiscent of large landed estates that have stood at the core of rural life in Latin American countries — known as haciendas — the 4,100-square-foot residence that anchors the nearly 700-acre property is as majestic as the land it sits on.
Combining Spanish elements with Adobe-style design
Built in 1989, the home has a timeless architecture that incorporates Mediterranean-inspired elements and Spanish charm, elevated by an Adobe-style design (and its signature dried mud building methods) that give it an earthy, almost surreal feel.
That extends to the interior spaces, where almost every room showcases a rich Spanish-style architecture with vibrant beamed ceilings and terracotta tiles contrasting against the white walls.
Inviting living spaces with oodles of charm
Combined, the styles and influences result in a supremely inviting space that echoes the tranquility of the estate.
A statement fireplace anchors the living area
The fireplace is almost like a sculptural addition to the living space, and features its own cozy seating area tucked neatly underneath the equally striking curved beams.
With its unique design being replicated in the kitchen
The mud fireplace design is also showcased in the kitchen, where a wood burning stove is just one of several standout features — including premium appliances and statement chandeliers.
Other architectural details include rounded windows
Arched windows, beamed ceilings, and terracotta tiles complete the stunning kitchen.
The primary bedroom is a serene retreat
The bedroom is just as inviting, with the same beamed ceilings towering above creamy white walls and warm, terracotta flooring, with carefully picked furnishings completing the look.
With its own mud fireplace
The bedroom has its own dual-sided mud brick fireplace (which seems to be a theme throughout the home) with a versatile seating area — that can accommodate a little reading nook, meditation corner etc.
Secondary homes on the property include another 4-bedroom, plus a cottage
Complementing the main house are two additional residences — a spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence with a 2-car garage, and a charming 2-bedroom cottage — perfect for multi-generational living or housing caretakers and staff.
Rural amenities like chicken coops and horse/cattle pens
Given its location and generous acreage, it may come as no surprise that the Friant property has a great selection of agriculture-focused amenities, including a 2,420-square-foot barn, a chicken coop, horse/cattle pens, and vast gardens.
Alongside modern additions, like a triangular pool
But there’s no shortage of modern conveniences, with two swimming pools on the grounds of the estate, one of which is a triangular-shaped infinity-edge pool with sweeping nature views.
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