Arts and Crafts, Front and Center
A rare example of Charles and Henry Greene’s sophisticated central-courtyard plan, this Pasadena estate, owned by actor-magician Harry Anderson, is on historic Grand Avenue and has sweeping views over the Arroyo Seco.
About this house: Built in 1907 for the Freeman A. Ford family, this classic Greene & Greene is one of only a few homes that truly perpetuate the Arts and Crafts style of architecture in the Los Angeles area. Unlike several other Greene & Greene homes, however, this home is gated and set well back from the street, approached through gardens laid out by landscape architect Robert Gordon Fraser, who in 1906 designed the once-famous, 30-acre Pasadena gardens of Adolphus Busch, founder of the St. Louis-based brewing company. Rare light fixtures and leaded-glass windows designed by the Greenes complement the oversized front door, which is shaped like a Native American dancer wearing peacock feathers of inlaid glass.
Asking price: $3,995,000
Size: The house, on more than 1.3 acres, has six bedrooms and 4.5 baths in about 6,400 square feet plus a basement of 2,600 square feet.
Features: The updated kitchen has been kept in the Greene & Greene style with its varnished countertops and period-looking tiles. New heating and air-conditioning systems have been installed, and Greene & Greene expert Randell Makinson designed a new pool and spa. Paint colors have been matched to the original ones, and wood paneling has been maintained. A sleeping loft in the turret has garden views. The property is hidden by mature landscaping, lending an air of privacy that appealed to its owner, who played humorist Dave Barry in the CBS sitcom “Dave’s World” (1993-97). Anderson, who moved to New Orleans, also enjoyed the circular motorcourt with a cedar tree in the center. .
Where: Pasadena. Showings to pre-qualified buyers, by appointment only.
Listing agent: Barry Sloane, historic and architecturally significant properties, Sotheby’s International Realty, Beverly Hills, (310) 786-1844.
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To be considered as a candidate for Home of the Week, e-mail ruth.ryon@latimes.com.
