Architecture Wednesday: John Show Ranch Estate

This is the John Show Ranch Estate, a Spanish Colonial Revival home that is one of the most significant historic structures in the San Fernando Valley. At the time of construction in the 1920s, the Show Ranch encompassed over 350 acres of citrus and walnut trees.

Today, the home is privately situated high above a surrounding development of Charles Du Bois midcentury homes and in pristine condition thanks to a multidecade, multimillion-dollar restoration by the current owners in collaboration with historic architects and contractors.

An ascending driveway leads to the grand arched front exterior and expansive wrap-around porch overlooking beautiful gardens and mature trees. The grand and soaring interior entrance sets a tone of distinction and artisan craftsmanship with its oversized carved Mahogany door, forged iron work, original Gladding McBean floors and original Malibu decorative tiles and fixtures are showcased throughout the home.

A bright and incredibly large step-down living room is the heart of the first floor, boasting hardwood floors, a decorative cast citrus fireplace above a Malibu tile hearth and a custom silk and wool carpet that was specifically designed for this room. The living room flows seamlessly into a large den and bar, perfect for entertaining. The large kitchen was recently completely overhauled to marry the modern with the memorable and features both original and custom cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances.

Just off of the kitchen, a large dining area is overlooked by ornate original ceiling plaster work. Dedicated to preserving the home, the current owners restored light fixtures  whenever possible, and had new figures duplicated to ensure that the look and historical integrity of the property remained intact.

Upstairs, the property features 4 large bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with original colorful Malibu tile bathroom floors, fixtures and fireplace tiles. Unlike many builds from the 1920's, the home has plenty of closet space and accompanying dressing rooms. Recent systems upgrades include a new roof, exterior sewer line, triple zoned HVAC and ducting and new electrical wiring and panels.

Outside is a resort like heated pool and patio settings were completely rebuilt and fortified to code in 2017 with structural pylons, rebar and retaining walls. The patios were tiled with period correct Arto Brick tiles to ensure that the 1928 experience was felt in every aspect of the property.

The upper exterior patio conveniently comes with a large custom bar and BBQ, while the lower patio offers plenty of space for pool parties and long summer evenings with family and friends.

It’s like living in history … featuring the original details and artisan craftsmanship, while being fully updated to the way we live today.

 Dwell