Hillside dome home surrounded by lush greenery and rolling mountains under a clear sky.

Experience Life as a Modern Neanderthal: Own This $4.2M Hillside Dome Home

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-07-28

Imagine living in a handcrafted home that defies conventional architecture. Nestled in Hillsborough, California, a location renowned as one of the country’s most expensive zip codes, lies an unusual treasure at 45 Berryessa Way. Visible from Highway 280, this unique abode offers an opportunity to embrace a lifestyle that resonates with a Neanderthal who has just made a fortune from their first IPO.

This extraordinary residence, currently priced at $4,225,800 on Zillow, showcases unforgettable design elements crafted by notable architects. While it’s been waiting patiently for its next owner for nearly a decade—3,310 days to be exact—the house continues to attract attention with its distinctiveness.

Modern bathroom with twin vanities and sleek countertops for grooming convenience.
Twin vanities for your grooming pleasure.

In 1976, Bay Area architect William Nicholson created this home with multiple domes nestled against a scenic hillside, overlooking the Crystal Springs Reservoir. Featuring a game room, a captivating conversation pit, and a unique third bedroom loft, it invites an immersive experience for those who appreciate architectural innovation and design. Eugene Tsui designed the spectacular biologic kitchen, adding another layer of intrigue.

Interior view featuring a cozy, cave-like design with stone walls and soft lighting.
A cave-like interior has some charm, no doubt.

For those who appreciate innovation, explore how ecological design influences architecture with this inspiring project.

Living space with antler lamps and a life-sized doll, creating an unusual decor.
Antler lamps and a life size doll?

If you’re fascinated by unorthodox home designs, this spectacular abode offers a rare chance to own a piece of surreal living history.

Illuminated cubbies with eclectic pottery enhancing the room's unique aesthetic.
A series of illuminated cubbies and scary pottery greet visitors.

Dive deeper into unique architecture by visiting Ecuador’s innovative wooden studio, showcasing local resources and traditional methods.

Room featuring a zebra rug and bamboo ladder for a rustic, cro-magnan feel.
The zebra rug and bamboo ladder fit your cro-magnan aesthetic.
Threshold with organic stucco, aged steel, and visible dryer vents exuding character.
A mixture of organic stucco, rusted steel, and dryer vents greet you at the threshold.
Quirky kitchen designed like a mad scientist's lab from prehistoric times.
This insane kitchen looks like the work of a mad scientist from 50,000 years ago.
Open living area with unique architectural features and natural light.
Outdoor area decorated with realistic dinosaur sculptures among greenery.
Dinosaurs come with the property!
Spacious interior room with comfortable seating and eclectic design elements.
Bedroom featuring a skylight providing natural lighting and enhancing the space.
The bedroom skylight is admittedly nice.
Artistic interior design with unconventional furniture and decor elements.
Room with custom furniture presenting a distinctly unique and creative style.
The interior’s custom furniture is…unique.
Living space resembling The Flintstones set with a contemporary California touch.
Looking like something out of the set of The Flintstones, in a Cali-chic way.
Exterior view with colorful stucco and domes blending modern with organic forms.
The organic stucco exterior is orange and purple, with domes emerging.
Kitchen with design elements challenging conventional styles with their uniqueness.
This kitchen defies explanation. Even for a caveman.

Source: mossandfog.com

Frequently asked questions

What is the price of the dome home?

The unique dome home is currently priced at $4,225,800 on Zillow.

Who created the home’s multiple domes?

In 1976, Bay Area architect William Nicholson created the home with multiple domes nestled against a scenic hillside.

How long has the home been on the market?

The house has been waiting for its next owner for nearly a decade—3,310 days to be exact.