When the seminal 60s pop band The Mamas & The Papas sang "California Dreamin'" more than four decades ago, they had no idea that their little ditty would be a veritable sunny portent for Simi Valley, which, time and time again, is proving to be one of the best places to live in Southern California.

Exemplifying the laid-back, California casual elegance alluded to in the song is Simi Valley's desirable neighborhood of Highland Estates. There, on a nearly one-half acre corner lot located at 81 Highland Road is a two-story home that any mama, papa — and their kids — would enjoy.

With architecture that evokes California contemporary with a hint of Mediterranean influence, the exterior walls are painted a light café au lait and feature svelte arched windows and stately front doors. The stamped concrete walkway is set between manicured green lawns and there are tidy shrubs and blossoming rose bushes lining the entrance, along with dramatic outdoor lighting.

A step inside and visitors immediately feel the warmth of the soothing neutral tones of newly painted walls, as well as stunning travertine tile flooring that runs throughout the first floor.

To the right of the foyer is a formal dining room which the current owners are using as a gaming area, as it's large enough to accommodate a pool table. To the left is the magnificent carpeted living room with antique-finished fireplace, crown molding and large windows that allow for maximum natural light.

Down the spacious hallway is an inset granite and marble medallion decoration, a pleasing central focal point in the floor. Opposite the medallion is a bedroom that can be used as an office, in-law's quarters or maid's room. In the bedroom is a convenient separate entrance comprised of French doors, which lead out to the patio and adjoining back yard. Just off the downstairs bedroom is a full bathroom.

The travertine floor continues into the great room, which encompasses a family room and kitchen. The spacious carpeted family room has a fireplace, custom draperies and a wall niche for an entertainment center. The huge, eat-in kitchen has granite countertops and custom cabinets that have been stained and painted with five layers of finish, which is complemented by interesting etched drawer pulls. There's a large granite-topped island with built-in sink and a new dishwasher. Nearby is a butler's pantry with the same elegant granite counters and custom cabinetry, and, opposite that is a food pantry that also has extended under-stair storage, for a wine collection, if desired.

An indoor laundry room is conveniently located downstairs as well.

The spectacular winding staircase leads to the second floor, which boasts an enormous master suite with plantation shutters, newer paint and new carpeting. The attached full bathroom has two vanities with sinks, an enclosed tub, separate shower and separate commode area.

Completing the upstairs are three more bedrooms and two additional bathrooms, along with separate linen closet.

Back downstairs, the California dreamin' continues with the entertainer's back yard, which has nearly everything to please every family member or guest.

Attention was paid to each tiny detail when the current homeowners designed a yard that was not only functional, but beautiful. The Pebble Tec-surfaced pool with spa also has a salt system, custom-installed tile and a Spanish-style fountain. Stamped concrete and strategically-placed rocks and foliage complete the pool's resort-like look.

The yard has numerous spots to relax or socialize, including a fire pit area and a built-in circular barbecue zone, with Solaire infrared barbecue, granite countertop and brightly-colored, hand-painted, rustic rooster tile decoration imported from Spain, and set into the stucco exterior.

There are mature, well-cared for plants and trees, including more palms, Haas avocado, navel orange and lime, as well as several grape vines.

For the kids, there's a built-in trampoline pit and, for the adults, plenty of concrete RV access to store their grownup toys.

The home's other amenities include recessed lighting, ceiling fans, central air conditioning and heating, an alarm system, indoor surround sound and new garage doors on the 5-car garage. Built in 1998, the home is 3,620 square feet and is priced at $1,150,000.

For more information, or for a private tour, call listing agent Darcy Box of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties at (805) 304-3361 or visit http://www.darcybox.com/.

FOR SALE

81 Highland Road, Simi Valley

$1,150,000

Darcy Box

Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties

304-3361

http://www.darcybox.com/