Cora Shores was the likely designer of this distinctive Crocker Highlands traditional style home with tile roof and Prairie Style elements. Cora Shore is listed as owner on the original building permit issued in 1915. However, an Oakland Tribune article from March 11, 1917, titled “Woman Successful Residence Designer Constructs Beautiful Oakland Homes” features a photo of 1079 Ashmount Avenue and references the newly completed home of John P. Clark. Cora Shores was a well-respected Oakland designer at the turn of the century whose homes were among the most artistic and attractive homes in Oakland. Her homes sold quickly, often before they were completed. She may have intended to live in 1079 Ashmount herself. She apparently started building several homes for herself, but was convinced to sell them before they were completed. Cora came from a family of architects and prided herself as being a designer of homes, not houses. Cora believed that men could design houses, but “when a woman designs a home it is sure to be a home when it is finished for into it she builds those delicate refinements and feminine attributes which must necessarily distinguish a home from a building which is merely a house.”



The current owners purchased this magnificent home in 1975 and lovingly restored it, incorporating modern conveniences while retaining the original architectural charm. The large entry foyer is flanked by the living and dining rooms. The spacious, light-filled living room has a fireplace with marble surround and hearth, and has access to a sun room. The formal dining room opens to a charming breakfast room with an original marble floor and floor-to-ceiling windows. A few steps up from the foyer is a solarium/family room that opens to a terrace that overlooks the private, park-like backyard with lawn, garden and mature trees.



Additional features include: Master bedroom suite upstairs with recently remodeled bathroom and walk-in closet; two additional bedrooms upstairs, one currently used as a media room; upstairs sunroom--currently used as a home office; new marble floor in second bathroom upstairs; guest bedroom and recently updated bathroom on the main level; remodeled kitchen with 5-burner gas cook top, Sub-Zero refrigerator, microwave, granite counters, decorative tile backsplash, trash compactor, butler’s pantry; security system; detached garage, partial basement; upgraded electrical; roof replaced approximately 4 years ago; beautiful refinished hardwood floors; featured on the Oakland Heritage Alliance Spring House Tour in 1994.