Many architecture aficionados believe good design is timeless. That philosophy rings true in the case of the evergreen appeal of midcentury architecture. In fact, the style has increased in popularity thanks to shows like Mad Men, whose set decorator Amy Wells regularly tapped into local resources like the Pasadena Antique Center for vintage furnishings.
In 1946, architect Floyd Mueller built 3 Lida Lane, a post-and-beam, midcentury home that was designed to be a personal residence for himself and his wife, Chilean artist Susana Guevara. Sited at the top of a private drive in Pasadena’s exclusive Linda Vista neighborhood, Mueller’s one-story structure spans 2,785 square feet and includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property has changed hands a few times and, although it has been updated over the years, still retains its midcentury markers and appeal.
Classic midcentury elements stay true to the home’s period, including organic materials, a flat roofline, built-in furniture, and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls that blend indoor-outdoor living. Although the home doesn’t have the period’s traditional open-concept living spaces, its L-shaped lateral design offers a seamless flow and transition between common and private areas. In addition to its midcentury markers, the home’s minimal interior design pays homage to Japanese architectural influence with Eastern-inspired elements such as woodwork, screens, and light fixtures.
Just off the entry, the wood-paneled living room overlooks the tree-surrounded backyard and leads to the dining room and period kitchen with white-paneled appliances, tiled floor, and island with bar seating (enough room for four seats). An office/bedroom with a corner picture window boasts custom built-ins with intricate carved knobs that mirror the built-ins along the dining and living room walls. Toward the rear of the living space, two bedrooms both boast floor-to-ceiling glass sliders that open onto a wraparound balcony.
The lot’s nearly three-fourths of an acre also includes a carport and stone-clad pool and spa swathed by mature trees. Need more space? The PSR4-zoned lot offers the opportunity to expand. For a chance to create your own compound, neighboring lot 4 Lida Lane is also for sale.
YEAR BUILT: 1946
LOT: 0.72 acres
INTERIOR: 2,785 square feet
BEDS/BATHS: 3/2
AMENITIES: Japanese woodwork, screens, and lighting are a nod to the architectural influence on Pasadena and the inherent serenity of the home’s design, while expansive walls of glass throughout offer views of the pool and mature oak trees.
WHAT SETS IT APART: The post-and-beam home was designed by architect Floyd Mueller as his own personal residence and has been recognized in media for its brilliance, including an appearance in the December 1951 issue of Arts and Architecture magazine.
INQUIRIES: $2.279 million; Steve Clark
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