Customized to the Hilt, This Postmodern Pasadena Estate Wants Nearly $6 Million

This ultra-bespoke Pasadena estate has rightfully earned its spot in the one-of-a-kind category. Long owned by relatives of noted architect Dwight James Baum — best known for his work on New York City’s West Side YMCA and Florida’s John Ringling mansion — the sprawling property was built over two years back in the 1980s by the architect’s grandson, a general contractor and engineer of the same name, and has remained in the Baum family ever since; now it’s popped up for sale with Sarah Rogers of Compass, asking $5.9 million.

Designed in collaboration with architect William Hamilton Arthur, the postmodern-style residence weighs in at almost 7,000 square feet, with four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths. Modern open-plan interiors are showcased by loads of wood-clad ceilings, walls and floors, plus large dual-pane windows and spacious rooms geared toward entertaining. Several features fully embrace the woodsy natural surroundings, including a 55-foot-long bridge with walls of glass linking one portion of the main level to the rest of the house.

Nestled along the seventh fairway of the Annandale Golf Club course, on nearly an acre of land at the end of a cul-de-sac, the attractive cedar structure is accessed via a lengthy tree-lined driveway that empties out at a motorcourt and three-car garage. A walkway descends to the front entryway, which stuns from the outset with a massive wood-carved door that flows into a tiled foyer sporting an indoor planter and artwork topping what resembles a reception desk as a focal point.

Steps lead down to a formal dining room that connects to a formal living room via a massive brick fireplace, with both areas boasting expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Other highlights include a gourmet kitchen outfitted with a center island and top-tier Sub-Zero and Viking appliances. A breakfast nook adjoins a cozy fireside family room and wet bar, with sliding glass doors spilling out to a wraparound deck.

Four ensuite bedrooms include a sizable master suite displaying a private balcony overlooking the golf course and a dressing area, plus Shoji-style doors providing access to a sky-lit bath adorned with a blood-orange spa tub and dual sinks. A separate office has a small loft space, and additional amenities include an enormous laundry room and wine-storage room, and a lower level hosting a wet bar-equipped game/screening room.

As for the picturesque backyard, expect to find a pool and spa surrounded by a wood deck offering lounging and al fresco dining areas, as well as a pool house hosting a bath, sauna, gym and dressing rooms. Rounding it all out is a grassy lawn abutting the golf course, 403-square-foot workshop and storage loft fitted with a 1,000-pound trolley lift.