Janice Lee janicelee@bhhscal.com
626.943.7303


$5,660,000

488 South San Rafael Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91105

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

Prominently situated on the west bank of the Arroyo Seco, this spectacular villa is reminiscent of Southern European architecture and is an inspiring example of the renowned Southern California architectural firm Marston, Van Pelt, and Maybury. Featuring a u-shaped plan with central courtyard, this home features a grand reception hall with Batchelder tile floors and an impressive stair to the second level. On the right side of the hall there is a powder room and an elegant library with amazing high-arched windows that jut into the lush foliage and a corner fireplace with cast stone detailing found in Mediterranean homes of the 16th century. Adjacent to the library is the magnificent step-down living room with walnut coffered ceiling and large-scale fireplace with cast stone surround. There are French doors from the living room that lead to a dramatic logia that crosses the central courtyard and connects to the gracious formal dining room. The lovely dining room has a fireplace with an ornately carved decorative paneling, walnut coffered ceilings, hexagonal Batchelder tile floors, and an arched picture window, perfectly framing the spectacular views of the Arroyo and San Gabriel Mountains beyond. Off of the Batchelder tiled hallway leading to the dining room is the butler�s pantry with extensive cabinet space for fine china, silver, and serviceware. Beyond the pantry is the efficient kitchen with commercial-grade Viking range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and vintage inspired black and white checkered floor. The main level is complete with an inviting light-filled breakfast room, laundry room, two staff bedrooms and a full bathroom. The main stairway that leads to the second floor is at the north end of the reception hall and features unique cloister-style columns of cast stone and arched windows with leaded glass that reveal the renaissance architecture of the estate. Upstairs is the enormous master suite with a retreat, dual bathrooms, generous walk-in closets, sleeping quarters, and a terrace that boasts some of the finest views in Pasadena. Adjacent to the master suite is the lady�s office with a decorative fireplace and built-in shelves. There are two additional grand-sized bedroom suites; one adjoins a sunroom with breathtaking views. The main house is finished with an extensive lower level with multiple storage rooms, rumpus/billiard room with fireplace, kitchenette, wine tasting room, and � bath. The rumpus room opens to a beautiful outside patio and gardens. The lushly landscaped grounds encompass 2.15 acres of land and include a large sparkling pool, multiple patios, and vistas. The property includes garden paths perfect for strolling on a warm summer evening. This amazing estate is complete with a guest cottage, highlighted by a private courtyard, that adjoins the detached 3-car garage. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own an important piece of Pasadena�s architectural heritage.


PROPERTY FEATURES
Type: Single Family Home
Rooms: 6
Bathrooms: 8.5
Stories:
Square Feet: 8,573 (per assessor)
Lot Size: 94,002 (per assessor) Sq. Ft.
Age of Home: 1925
Fireplaces:
Amenities:
Appliances:

Features:
Community Features: