Architecture Wednesday: South Pasadena Carriage House

This is an extraordinarily private, park-like setting that provides backdrop for this South Pasadena architectural compound. It was initially developed from what had been the carriage house of the La Willinda estate—a 1914 design by architect Louis du Paget Millar for lumber merchant W. E. Cooper. The Irish born architect, who was also coincidentally cousin to radio inventor Marconi, was an important figure in early 20th century Pasadena architecture and his legacy is still evident today, most notably along the Arroyo, on California Blvd and Green Street.

The property was recently transformed and expanded by its artistic owners who added a walled addition to the original Millar structure creating a modern kitchen, dining, and living area. It was a careful renovation that drew a distinct line between the original 1914 building and the recent addition, gracefully bridging the gap from the last century to this one.

Large glass doors and windows wrap the high ceilinged and open plan addition that houses a gourmet kitchen with a luxurious mix of finishes and Thermador appliances is at its center. Walnut built-ins, European Oak plank flooring, Italian tile, and vintage mid-century lighting add to its distinctive character and an extensive and detailed updating of the home's systems was undertaken at this same time.

Additionally, a newly-built, detached two car garage and adjoining guest house with full bath + kitchenette establish total privacy from the street where, beyond the circular driveway and front gate, a 40 foot brick entry path is shaded by a pergola and the 90-year-old Wisteria that is woven through it. An updated, heated, and centrally positioned pool further bolsters the property's oasis-like feeling. The surrounding gardens are remarkably tranquil and lush; with meandering pathways, manicured landscaping, and mature Oak, Carob, Podocarpus, Japanese Maple, Olive and Grapefruit trees.

Inside the original carriage house is a large living and dining area with fireplace and wood paneling, while the new kitchen and den are off to the side. On this main level is a powder room, the primary bedroom and bath while upstairs has a large guest room, small nursery/office and luxurious bathroom.

This is a truly unique property, and a piece of history, in one of the most desirable enclaves of South Pasadena and could be yours for a hair over $3M.

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The Spaces

Architecture Wednesday: Streamline Moderne Pasadena Home

This rare 1938 Moderne Streamline home is prominently anchored on a corner lot in the cherished Poppy Peak Hills area of Pasadena. Terraced living over three hillside levels, the architecture personifies the Bauhaus-infused design sensibility, not to mention leveraging Southern California's mild climate with its open floor plans and a cruise-liner inspired exterior, characterized by sweeping horizontal lines, concrete, expansive decks and tiered gardens that fan out from the 2,106 square foot home

The reverse floorplan allows one to enter on the upper-most level with direct access to the living room, dining area, both with stunning hillside views, and a galley kitchen as well as a half bath. A broad outdoor deck, reminiscent of a steamliner's bow provides effortless alfresco entertaining and captivating hillside views.

Downstairs the primary bedroom offers a full bath with dual vanity sinks and walk-in closet. There are two additional bedrooms, a complementary full bath with step-in shower and adjacent balcony on this middle level while the garage, laundry and storage can be found at the lower level.

It’s old school style but with a updated roof, plumbing, wiring, sewer line, electrical panels, EV charger and roof-mounted owner-owned solar making it the best of both old and new.

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 The Spaces

Architecture Wednesday: Historic Highlands 1927 English Tudor

This enchanted compound in the desirable Historic Highlands Landmark District in Altadena includes a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1927 English Tudor main house and a newly renovated 1 bedroom, one-and-a-half bath contemporary ADU—formerly the carriage house.

You enter the main house into a spacious living room with wood-burning brick fireplace, contrasting beamed ceiling, textured plaster, and original iron windows with integrated metal screens. North-facing windows frame views of the San Gabriel mountains while French doors open from the adjacent dining room to a private, sunny courtyard patio.

Original detailing and character have been retained throughout the home including built-ins, decorative tile in bathrooms, and hardwood floors. The coved doorway of the dining room lead to the family room with a fireplace as well as a contemporary kitchen with high-end appliances, gleaming wood, glass-fronted cabinetry, hand-inlaid counters, and a charming breakfast nook. The three bedrooms and two baths, with original tiling, along one side of the home while out back the former carriage house was remodeled into a modern ADU.

The first floor of the ADU is made up of a skylit living room, an open-plan kitchen, and a large full bath with a walk-in shower. Upstairs is a spacious and well-organized one-bedroom, office nook and half bath with large windows showcasing the surrounding Oak trees, the back garden, vine-covered pergolas, and mature trees.

Two homes for the price of one, with great income potential; the home was listed for $1.85M but sold for $2.1M.

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Unique California Property