343 Verbena Drive

Sculptural Art and architectural design merge in this expansive, contemporary, southwest estate located in the San Diego desert resort community of Borrego Springs. Originally the home for noted sculptor John Richen, this 5 bedroom 4.5 bath offers a luxurious oasis with 4 fireplaces, two pools, multiple outdoor patios and exquisite custom detailing. From the entry gates, front door and interior finishes it is living in a work of art. Views to the Santa Rosa mountains and Indian Head capture the grandeur of the desert landscape. The kitchen caters to an intimate meal or professional chef, with Wolf cooktop range/oven and Sub Zero in counter drawer appliances. Perfect for entertaining, this home offers both a formal living room with 16 foot ceilings and fireplace, dedicated dining room that easily seats 12, as well as a family room that opens to an exterior patio with sculptural fountain and separate secret fully equipped bar and lounge. The primary suite in the south wing opens onto its own, large, private patio with a separate pool serving as oasis. The central heart of the house holds the kitchen, a library/office, wine bar and two guest suites with their own private baths and easy access to the primary pool, spa and outdoor BBQ kitchen and exterior fireplace. Two additional guest bedrooms, perfect for au pair or housekeeper with shared bath, are located in the north wing. The garage holds three cars plus large work space and laundry. The expansive grounds also include a separate outdoor irrigated kitchen garden and basketball court. The landscape includes fruit trees, flowers and is designed to be water efficient and desert friendly. A rooftop solar array assists with energy efficiency while not sacrificing comfort. Three zoned HVAC systems along with evaporative coolers help keep the house comfortable. Property also features a roof top star gazing deck and also is equipped with owned solar panels. Home was renovated circa 2008-2009 when owner added additional living space, electrical, flooring and plumbing upgrades including a dual zoned hot water circulation systems and multiple zoned audio system. Borrego Springs is the desert resort community of San Diego and has been a favorite for celebrities and entrepreneurs since the 1940’s who are looking for a quiet and discrete getaway. Easily accessible, Borrego is located a two-hour drive from San Diego and Palm Springs and three hours from Los Angeles. The airport in Borrego hosts private planes as well as jets. Borrego is much like Palm Springs 75 years ago – with less people, traffic and a quiet community that is surrounded by the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in the contiguous United States. Exploring the desert, hiking, off-roading and a vibrant art and performing arts scene are just some of many activities to enjoy along with simply slowing down to unwind. An International Dark Sky community, Borregans cherish their unparalleled views of the heavens.