If you've ever thought about leaving the hustle and bustle of the city and moving to a pristine, peaceful place in the country where you could grow avocados as an avocation, this 20-acre avocado ranch in Somis might be just what you're looking for. And if you haven't, one look at this private gated custom home and you might consider it.

Nestled in the hills above the prime agricultural valley of Somis, surrounded by mountains, the house overlooks citrus and avocado groves with a view that extends to the ocean.

Entering the private gated drive, you wind your way through the trees to the top of the hill and arrive at the front entrance of this large single story home. Built in 1984 by area architect Bob Lee, this approximately 3,482 square-foot home, painted a deep gray with brick accents blends nicely with the surrounding landscape.

Upon entering through the double wooden doors, the house echoes the style of a midcentury modern design. Bold, clean lines, angled ceilings and an open flowing floor plan give the home a dramatic look.

To the right of the entry is the library. Built-in shelves and a soffited ceiling offer a cozy spot to read or watch TV. From the library a short hall leads to the formal dining room. The large room has an angled white washed ceiling that extends from the dining room to the living room. The rooms white walls are a perfect backdrop to display favorite works of art, including the beautiful watercolors painted by the home's owner, Karen Romney. A built-in buffet with cabinets beneath separates the dining room from the living room.

One step down from the dining room leads to spacious living room. A floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace centers one wall, it is balanced on the opposite side of the room by a massive brick pier with built-in shelves, which also houses the chimney and fireplace for the adjacent kitchen nook. Sliding doors off the living room lead to the back patio; an overhang diffuses the natural light which enhances the incredible views.

The architect has created an innovative solution to provide ambient lighting through a dynamic series of architectural beams extending through the living room and kitchen which conceal the recessed lighting.

A unique curved counter with seating encircles the kitchen. The raised counter allows "the cook" to look out into the dining room while preparing food along the expansive counter without guests having to see the kitchen clutter.

Across the kitchen, next to the Sub-Zero refrigerator is a walk in butler's pantry where the oven is located along with a second sink and more prep space. Romney says this area is great when preparing for parties, as any mess can be hidden from guests.

The kitchen has an abundance of cabinets and a built-in desk. Skylights above let in the natural light.

Across from the kitchen is an eat in nook, a large picture window overlooks the back yard, with views extending across the valley. Sliding doors right of the nook lead to one of two patios lining the rear of the home.

The home has three bedrooms and 3.75 baths. Two of the bedrooms are on the left wing of the home. Each of the spacious rooms has its own full bath and walk in closet. One of the bedrooms is currently used as an office, but can easily be converted back to a bedroom.

The large master suite houses the homes third fireplace and sliding doors open to a private patio. The spa like master bath has a green tiled tub and shower, and a dual sinked vanity has windows above with views to the hills beyond and a private bricked in patio. Mirrors are to the right and left of each sink. A large walk in closet off the bath completes the space.

Other amenities in the home include an attic which offers additional storage space, a full alarm system and solar heating. Romney said her energy bill last month was a whopping "one dollar and five cents." And that had gone up five cents from the previous month.

The backyard is private and peaceful and is one of Romney's favorite features of the home. She loves the view and being surrounded by nature. The abundance of flowers, (more than 100 rose bushes) and trees attract the birds and the setting provides inspiration for many of Romney's watercolors.

Steps down from the house lead to the large pebble tech pool which centers the yard. Romney's husband an architect, built a retaining wall next to the steps faced with a unique Italian tile, above which are planted an array of plants and flowers.

Across from the pool is a retreat that is frequented by Romney's grandchildren, with bunk beds and a full bath, it is quite the clubhouse and the place to stay when they are visiting.

A raised deck behind the pool is perfect for sitting and enjoying the views to the ocean during the day and the sparkling city lights at night.

The home, listed by Realtor and agricultural broker Gwyn Goodman, will be open June 29 from 1 to 4 p.m.. Listed at $2.3 million, you can reach Goodman at 987-6695 or view the home online at http://www.gwyngoodman.com.

FOR SALE

8070 Balcom Canyon Rd.

$2.3 million

Open June 29

1 to 4 p.m.

Gwyn Goodman

Goodman Real Estate

987-6695

http://www.gwyngoodman.com

Custom home on a 20-acre avocado grove.