Mad Men Producer Puts His Pasadena Midcentury Up For Auction Starting at $1.7M

The newly remodeled home of producer and director Scott Hornbacher goes on bid Saturday, May 19th, and we have a feeling the auction won't last long.

Published by

Built in 1957 by Case Study architects Buff, Straub, and Hensman, the Thomson Residence has been widely published as an important example of the architects' early post and beam work. Located in the Poppy Peak Historic District in Pasadena's San Rafael Hills, the striking 1,885-square-foot home is now being auctioned by Deasy Penner via plumBid on Saturday, May 19th, with the starting bid at $1,695,000.

Expansive glazing creates a beautiful flow and a strong integration of indoor/outdoor spaces.

Cameron Carothers

The three-bedroom, three-bath property recently underwent a museum-quality restoration for which it was awarded the 2012 Preservation Award by the City of Pasadena in California. 

Double-height ceilings over the open dining area helps to create a nice, airy vibe.

Cameron Carothers

Get the Dwell Newsletter

Be the first to see our latest home tours, design news, and more.

Subscribe
Shop the Look

Eames Molded Plastic Dowel-Leg Side Chair (DSW)

The unmistakable Eames Molded Plastic chair takes on a different life with each of its base offerings. The wooden dowel legs of the Eames® Molded Plastic Side ChaCharles and Ray Eames believed that “design is a method of action,” and they continually updated their work as new materials became available. Their Molded Plastic chairs were originally designed in metal and entered as a prototype in MoMA’s 1948 International Competition for Low-Cost Furniture Design. They then changed the material to fiberglass in 1950, and today the chairs are made of recyclable polypropylene. Charles was dissatisfied with the fiberglass, and it wasn’t until after his death that the matte finish he desired was achieved, thanks to advances in materials. “The chair that Charles and Ray were designing,” explains grandson Eames Demetrios, “is the chair that’s made tomorrow.” The deep seat pocket and waterfall seat edge keep you comfortable by reducing pressure on the backs of thighs. This is an authentic chair by Herman Miller, Inc. Eames is a licensed trademark of Herman Miller. Made in U.S.A. Photo Courtesy of Design Within Reach

Shop


Virtually every surface has been restored or rebuilt to exacting detail, and the dwelling even features all new systems, including plumbing, electrical, roof, and zoned HVAC. Keep scrolling for a greater glimpse inside this iconic midcentury home.

The open layout flows from the kitchen into the dining and living areas.

Cameron Carothers

The updated kitchen features a Sub-Zero refrigerator and Miele appliances.

Cameron Carothers

A built-in display cabinet adds storage, while also enhancing the authentic midcentury feel.

Cameron Carothers

The feeling of indoor/outdoor living extends to the second floor thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glazing. The beauty of the post and beam construction is particularly sensed at this level.

Cameron Carothers

A look at the office space located on the second level.

Cameron Carothers

The master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom, along with doors that open to the deck.

Cameron Carothers

The master bathroom.

Cameron Carothers

Even the stairway offers beautiful architectural lines.

Cameron Carothers

A second-level terrace overlooks the deck and provides stunning views of the surrounding San Gabriel mountains.

Cameron Carothers

The exterior also has quiet spots for contemplation.

Cameron Carothers

The expansive decks and patios enable indoor/outdoor living and easy entertaining. 

Cameron Carothers

A look at the vertical exterior lines of the facade.

Cameron Carothers

The pop of orange as an accent color is picked up in the carport.

Cameron Carothers

The soaring two-story structure at dusk.

Cameron Carothers

1695 Poppy Peak Drive, Pasadena is being sold by Deasy Penner via plumBid on Saturday, May 19th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The starting bid is $1,695,000. See the full listing here

Know of a home for sale or rent that should be featured on Dwell.com? Drop us a line at community@dwell.com.

Published

Last Updated

LikeComment

Midcentury Homes