The stately brick building you see is Filoli, a country estate that offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century Californian life, blending natural beauty with human artistry. Situated amidst the rolling hills of Woodside, this historic landmark holds a unique place, especially as one of the few remaining estates of its kind in the region. Filoli’s story began in 1917 when it was built for William Bowers Bourn II, a prominent gold mine owner and president of Spring Valley Water Company, which supplied water to San Francisco. He and his wife, Agnes, envisioned a self-sustaining country estate. The name "Filoli" itself is an acronym created by Bourn, reflecting his personal philosophy: "FIght for a just cause; LOve your fellow man; LIve a good life." What makes Filoli particularly striking, beyond its grand architecture, are its meticulously maintained formal gardens, which span 16 acres. The estate showcases a sophisticated blend of Georgian Revival architecture and classic English Renaissance design for the gardens. While the house itself is impressive, the gardens are often the highlight, featuring various themed areas, including a walled garden, a sunken garden, and an impressive collection of fruit trees. The estate eventually passed to the Roth family in 1937, who continued to preserve and enhance it for over 40 years. In 1975, the Roth family generously donated Filoli to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, ensuring its long-term preservation and public access. Today, it operates as a vibrant cultural institution, hosting educational programs, art exhibitions, and special events throughout the year. The presence of the decorated tree and subtle festive adornments suggests that the estate might be celebrating a seasonal event, such as its popular "Holidays at Filoli," which transforms the estate into a festive wonderland.