Meme Dump

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: House of Balconies

You’ll almost feel as though you’ve stepped back in time when you enter this home in the Lafayette hills, a phenomenal split-level five-bedroom, three-bathroom luxury home built by renowned Mid-Century Modern architect Robert Klemmedson in 1959. This quintessential Mad Men-era masterpiece has been carefully restored to its modernist glory and is hitting the market for the first time in 60 years.

Known as “The House of Balconies” by when it was built, the home boasts soaring vaulted ceilings and expansive walls of floor-to-ceiling windows and multitude of decks and balconies that frame dramatic views of Mt. Diablo and vineyards dotting distant Lafayette hillsides.

The 3,170-square-foot house sits on a very private half-acre surrounded by mature oak, pine, and bay trees and features original slate floors with radiant heat, mahogany paneled walls, a sunken conversation pit next to a two-sided copper fireplace for sipping martinis, exposed beam ceilings, and multiple sliding glass doors that open onto decks and patio surrounding the pool.

Klemmedson’s architecture celebrates our connection to nature and geography; in this home he married indoor and outdoor spaces by extending a limestone wall from the Zen-like entryway into the living room’s stunning floor-to-ceiling stone wall and out again towards the backyard pool.

Known for his creative use of space, Klemmedson cantilevered the primary bedroom dramatically over the living room, creating a romantic interior balcony. This spacious suite includes a dressing room and serene bathroom with a sunken step-in shower, emerald fired tile, and lush views through vast windows and opens to a curved redwood deck with stairs leading down to the pool.

The home’s other bedrooms occupy a separate wing with its own staircase and cantilevered landing. Below this family bedroom wing, you'll find the den, game room/study, and bright laundry room.

The kitchen is substantially larger than many kitchens of the era and has been updated with high-end appliances, stone counters, and cabinetry. Designer features were added for today’s homeowners who love entertaining, including a peninsula bar with seating, a copper sink, wine refrigerator and a kitchen-to-patio pass-through is fitted with folding glass windows.

The backyard oasis also boasts a gas firepit, freshly laid lawn, the pool and those views and can be yours for a hair under $3M.

Dwell