On the Market: Escape to the English Countryside

1240 South Grand Avenue, Pasadena

For anyone dreaming of an English countryside–inspired tranquil escape, this lower Arroyo Seco residence blends idyllic country living with the convenience and rich culture of Pasadena. A piece of Pasadena history, the Tudor Revival was designed by early 20th century American architect Frederick Louis Roehrig, whose past works include Castle Green and The Braun Music Center at Westridge School.

Originally commissioned in 1906 as a 23-room mansion, the property has been recently renovated to offer modern amenities while retaining the home’s signature charm. Spanning 7,177 square feet of living space across three levels, the five-bedroom main home’s architectural details include the generous use of oak and mahogany, two built-in bars, oversized fireplaces, and long, French-styled windows.

The gourmet kitchen boasts plentiful custom cabinetry, imported tile and fixtures, a large island, commercial-grade appliances, and a large butler’s pantry that opens to a second outdoor kitchen, complete with a plethora of stainless appliances. An office, powder room, and bedroom suite round off the estate’s main floor.

A passenger elevator services the three floors of the residence, including the private third floor, featuring the primary suite with a fireplace, two custom-designed dressing rooms, and two marble baths. Each additional bedroom suite offers walk-in closets and views.

The parklike grounds serve as a private, peaceful retreat with manicured greenery, winding stone walkways, expansive patio and seating area, and pebble-coated saltwater pool with oversized spa, complemented by an 870-square-foot pool house with a vaulted cathedral ceiling. A four-car garage with an adjacent workshop completes the estate.

BUILT: 1905
LOT: 1.26 acres
INTERIOR: 8,047 square feet
BEDS/BATHS: 6/6

AMENITIES: An entertainer’s dream, the lower level features a built-in oak bar and media room with surround sound and three television screens, temperature-controlled wine room, and spacious guest suite with a tiled bath, walk-in dressing closet, and French doors that open to the rolling green lawn.

WHAT SETS IT APART: Nestled behind a long, private, gated driveway and sited on over 1.25 acres on the bank of the lower Arroyo Seco, privacy and tranquility abound with unparalleled treetop and garden views displayed from every room.

INQUIRIES: $8.9 million; Rita Whitney, theagencyre.com