A Picture-Perfect Midcentury in Pasadena Lists for $2.3M
The plans for this post-and-beam construction were featured in the May 1950 edition of “Arts & Architecture Magazine.”
Known as the Robert Smith Residence, 320 San Miguel Road was built by architects Eugene Weston and Douglas Byles in 1951, after the plans for the home were published in the May 1950 edition of Arts & Architecture Magazine, in an article titled, "The Small House and the City Plot." The home hasn't stayed small, though; it's evolved over the years thanks to a series of well-executed renovations. Today, is the epitome of indoor/outdoor living.
The glass box entry was added in 1964. The home is a series of light-filled moments and lovely views of the surrounding landscape.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The first renovation happened in 1964 when Whitney Smith designed and added two additional pavilions—the living room and the master suite. The additions were tied together with a transparent glass box entry. Smith's work stayed true to the rhythm of the original design by connecting and integrating the original and new elements of the home in a playful and perfectly seamless way.
The stunning midcentury home is sited around a pool—a 2005 addition that looks like it has always been there.
Photo by Pierre Galant
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The next renovation came in 1984, when the home’s guest wing was expanded, adding a large en suite bathroom and two adjoining rooms connected by double pocket doors. In 2005, the home received a sensitive and architecturally thoughtful remodel focused on the kitchens and the bathrooms. This renovation also added the pool and a koi pond located just outside the master suite. Adding to the history of the home, the seller, Dave Binder, happens to be a general contractor who specializes in restoring architectural homes, working to bring the Robert Smith Residence up to 2019 standards while maintaining its 1950's charm.
The post-and-beam construction features tongue-and-groove ceilings and walls of glass throughout.
Photo by Pierre Galant
Clerestory windows bring additional natural light into the home.
Photo by Pierre Galant
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The style and mythology of Mid-Century Modern California architecture as seen through the expert lens of Marvin Rand. Los Angeles photographer Marvin Rand created iconic images of some of the most celebrated architectural creations of his time, photographing buildings by the likes of Modernist masters Craig Ellwood, Louis Kahn, and Frank Lloyd Wright to capture the essence of their work - and, in doing so, played a critical role in shaping the Mid-Century California style now worshiped the world over. The discovery of Rand's archive has brought a treasure trove to life, and California Captured showcases it - and the period - as never before.
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ShopLight and air flows seamlessly from the entrance (the yellow front door) through the open living spaces.
Photo by Pierre Galant
All of the windows and doors are original and have been restored to full functionality by the seller.
Photo by Pierre Galant
This angle shows the open-plan living space and how it connects to the outdoor space.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The dining area overlooks the pool.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The open kitchen is bright and airy.
Photo by Pierre Galant
One of the highlights of the kitchen is the beautiful marble countertops.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The master bedroom has glass sliders that open to a small terrace and the koi pond.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The master bedroom has 10-foot ceilings and clerestory windows.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The bathroom skylight was a part of the 1964 addition by Whitney Smith.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The second bedroom.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The bathrooms have been updated but still maintain a distinct midcentury vibe.
Photo by Pierre Galant
This bedroom is currently in use as a home office.
Photo by Pierre Galant
There is native, drought-resistant landscaping at the entrance.
Photo by Pierre Galant
The low profile home boasts clean midcentury lines.
Photo by Pierre Galant
Porsche not included.
Photo by Pierre Galant
320 San Miguel Road, Pasadena is currently being listed for $2,275,000 by Julia Allos of Deasy Penner Podley.
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