$1,625,000

Tucked into the highly desirable Hobson Heights neighborhood, Casa Azul is a 2 bed, 2 bath Mediterranean cottage from the 1920s with authentic character that unfolds slowly and stays with you. Behind the Picasso blue gate, a quiet front courtyard wrapped in birds of paradise and scented by citrus immediately softens the world outside. It is peaceful here, private, and a true buffer from the street. Step through the arched original front door into a bright, welcoming living room filled with natural light. Original wood floors, graceful arches, and beautifully washed wood trim give the space warmth and character, the kind of room you want to sit down in and stay awhile. Santa Barbara style plaster walls, wood beam details, and hand selected Moroccan inspired lighting create a collected, personal feel layered over time rather than designed all at once. The kitchen is both beautiful and functional, finished with Carrara marble countertops, a marble tiled architectural niche, generous pantry, and a bay window overlooking the garden. Doors open directly to a south facing outdoor dining deck, extending everyday living outdoors. A wraparound deck leads to a private backyard with an established avocado tree, gas fire pit, grassy entertaining area, raised veggie boxes, and multiple seating spaces for gatherings, quiet mornings, or sunset evenings. A peek a boo ocean view through the trees is a reminder of how close the beach truly is. Both bedrooms feel like serene sanctuaries featuring walk in closets and wood beam ceilings. The primary bathroom is especially unique with a vaulted Moroccan inspired ceiling and skylight. A separate lower level bonus room with its own entrance offers flexibility as a home office, art studio, or guest space. Updates include a new Mitsubishi heat pump HVAC system installed in 2024, refinished hardwood floors, updated electrical panel that is solar ready, and new outlets and GFCIs. A permeable pea gravel drive provides parking for multiple vehicles along with a one car garage. Previously approved plans for an attached second story ocean view JADU with permits lapsed in 2025 offer future potential. Despite its central midtown location, Casa Azul feels like a quiet oasis moments from parks, shops, downtown, and the ocean, a home with character and soul you feel the moment you walk through the blue gate.