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Here's some interesting timing: The new issue of "425," a magazine about the Seattle region's Eastside, includes a big spread on the home of Steve Berkowitz -- a senior vice president in Microsoft's unprofitable online division, whose plan to leave the company was announced last week.

Ever wonder how a Microsoft executive lives? A summary of the article and selected photos are now available on the magazine's Web site.

The article, which went to press before last week's news, describes in vivid detail every aspect of Berkowitz's "Medina Masterpiece" -- complete with five bedrooms, "a luxury spa bathroom with soaking tub, a media room, a large gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, beautiful yard and of course, a stunning view." The print edition includes photos of Berkowitz hanging out on the couch with his wife, Carol, and uncorking a bottle of wine in another room.

We also learn some personal details about Berkowitz, the former Ask.com chief executive, including the fact that he's a "master on the barbecue," in his wife's estimation. An excerpt from the article:

Steven loves his house because it makes his life easier. No detail was overlooked, like the spice rack on the side of the stove or the pot filler above the burners. The windows in the master bathroom are large and let light in but are frosted for privacy. The tile around the tub and throughout the bathroom warms toes -- and more. "He leaves his pants there," Carol said. "At first I thought he was just being lazy ... but he likes to warm his clothes."

Berkowitz is expected to stay at Microsoft through August, but there has been no word on his plans beyond that. According to King County property records, he paid a little less than $4 million for the house in May 2006. I checked today, and the house currently is not listed for sale.

Note, Thursday: Photo credit corrected.