The Homes

The greater Pasadena area is home to some of the most prestigious and beautifully designed homes of anywhere in the country. For one weekend each December we invite you to join us in touring four wonderful homes and gardens, decorated for the holidays by Pasadena’s finest floral designers. Enjoy music by Pasadena Symphony members, stroll the gardens and finally shop to your heart’s content at the Boutique.

Hillcrest Avenue

French Country

Florist: Drew Domenghini

Unable to modify their California Ranch style home to meet their needs the owners built a new home in its place. In 2004, architects Lim Chang Rohling and Associates designed a Country French home that looks original to the neighborhood. Interior designer Elizabeth Guthrie accomplished the same with the interior space. Pear trees and a tiered fountain stand alongside an original gatehouse pulled from the McCormick family estate. The theme of Country French is noticeable throughout the home. French doors open to the gated patio area, where beyond lies the vegetable garden and garden railroad. And to the north, a courtyard featuring a distinctive three-sided fireplace is ideal for southern California entertaining.

French Normandy

Florist: Jacob Maarse

Built in 1924 by the Bissell family, inventors of the carpet sweeper, this lovely French Normandy home was featured in the 1928 issue of Pacific Coast Architect and later in Architectural Digest. The current owners purchased the home in 1999 and completed major renovations, following the design of the original architect, David Ogilvie. Neutral color tones and Oak floors found throughout enhance the original details of the home. Window placements in the living room offer magnificent views of garden areas featuring flagstone patio areas and an outdoor kitchen, surrounded by California Live Oaks. Breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains, along with soothing sounds of flowing water delight the senses.

The Library District

Contemporary

Florist: Ixora

This magnificent contemporary home in the Library district of San Marino was designed and built by the two architect owners. A modern masterpiece completed in 2007 this spectacular home was designed around the concept of family living and a seamless transition from inside to outside. Beds of green tumbled glass on both sides of clear walls enhance the indoor-outdoor connection. The combined open living and dining rooms are surrounded on three sides by glass offering views to the park-like gardens. The family room and German kitchen open completely to the lawn, pool, deck and patio through doors that disappear into the walls. Adding to the homes originality is furniture designed by the owner as well as noted architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

Spanish Colonial

Florist: Leonora Moss

The Myles Standish Slocum home, completed in 1929, was designed by noted Pasadena architect Garrett Van Pelt. Considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Colonial homes in the area, the home was created as a sanctuary for the family’s "private pursuits", originally housing a rare book collection and entertaining numerous guests.

Throughout the years guests of note include Walt Disney, Norman Rockwell and cousin Ginger Rogers. Purchased by the current owners in 1987, the home has been meticulously maintained and updated preserving the architectural integrity and original details. Completing the villa are terraces and balconies offering unobstructed views of both formal and informal gardens surrounding the property.