Richard Neutra’s Impeccably Updated Wilkins House in Southern California Asks $6M
Architect Richard Neutra’s 1949 Wilkins House sits on an oversize flag lot in South Pasadena, California, surrounded by sprawling, park-like greenery. The 2,980-square-foot property includes a pool and a detached, 800-square-foot guesthouse restored in keeping with Neutra’s original plan, led by architect John Bertram. It’s also believed to be the realization of Neutra’s unbuilt 1947 plans for Case Study House #13, The Alpha House.
The entry of the Richard Neutra’s Wilkins House connects to the verdant landscaping.
The Case Study Houses, a collection of 36 homes built across Southern California between 1945 and 1966, were created when Arts & Architecture Magazine commissioned the major architects of the day to design inexpensive, replicable model homes to accommodate the post-World War II residential housing boom. Neutra was one of the most well-respected architects who participated in the program, designing the plans for four homes—of which only one was officially built.
The redwood tongue-and-groove ceiling extends straight out of the home to line the eaves.
The Wilkins House was documented by photographer Julius Shulman in 1950; a look at the original images shows how the updated three-bedroom, three-bath home was renovated true to its original plan. The home features many of its original midcentury details—redwood tongue-and-groove ceilings, enormous windows, a double-sided brick fireplace, radiant heating below the terrazzo and cork floors, and covered outdoor terrazzo terraces.
The renovation involved restoring the kitchen and adding high-end appliances without losing the home’s authentic midcentury character. It also updated the residence with modern amenities, such as a spa-like master bathroom. Scroll ahead for a look inside.
The redwood tongue-and-groove ceilings, cork floors with radiant heating, and an expansive wall of glass in the living room are just a few of the home’s original midcentury features.
A double-sided brick fireplace anchors the open-plan living space. A unique ventilation system in the living room and the master bedroom features hinged birch panels below a row of aluminum casement windows. Opening from the top, the system introduces air to the interior even while the curtains are drawn.
The living room as it connects to the dining area.
There is a spacious den off the dining area.
After a full renovation, the kitchen is equipped with modern appliances.
White cabinets reflect light throughout the space.
The eat-in kitchen has a breakfast nook and a built-in home office. The renovation also added an extra-large butler’s pantry to the space.
The master bedroom has built-in cabinetry and sliding glass doors leading out to the terrace.
![The updated master bathroom was renovated by John Bertram as well with a textured wall of tiles and a skylight. According to the listing agent, "The tiles have a specific shape to them so when the skylight above hits [them with rays of light], you get unique shadows." ](https://images2.dwell.com/photos/6133553759298379776/6687484113736339456/original.jpg?auto=format&q=35&w=160)
The updated master bathroom was renovated by John Bertram as well with a textured wall of tiles and a skylight. According to the listing agent, "The tiles have a specific shape to them so when the skylight above hits [them with rays of light], you get unique shadows."
An additional bedroom also features built-ins.
The exterior of the home and the terrace off the living room.
There is also an 800-square-foot guesthouse with a full kitchen, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The enormous plate-glass window fully opens the home to the outdoors.
Set on almost an acre of land, the sprawling grounds include an in-ground swimming pool.
The Wilkins House.
The Wilkins House is currently on the market for $5,999,000 and is listed with Anthony Stellini and Elisa Ritt of RSR Real Estate at Compass.
Know of a home for sale or rent that should be featured on Dwell.com? Find out how to submit to Dwell.
Published
Get the Dwell Newsletter
Be the first to see our latest home tours, design news, and more.