Back in the early 1900s, Irish architect Louis duPuget Millar — best known for his distinctly British-looking homes, many overlooking the park-like Arroyo Seco — was commissioned to create this eye-catching residence for Telephone & Telegraph Co. executive J.C. Brainard, a partner in the development of Pasadena’s affluent Prospect Park neighborhood, as well as the very first president of the Pasadena Board of Realtors.
Subsequently owned by the late painter and printmaker Leonard Edmondson, the place is currently the property of his children — including ceramist Stan Edmondson — and has been used as a communal gathering spot for artists since the ’50s. Now the historic “transitional Craftsman” is available on the open market for the first time in more than six decades, asking $2.5 million.
Resting on a deep, flat parcel spanning over a quarter-acre — in Northwest Pasadena’s Prospect Park neighborhood, tucked away in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains — the attractive shingled and brick-accented structure features six bedrooms and four baths in 2,850 square feet of two-level living space, plus a basement; and though it’s been well-maintained and updated through the years, there still are some tweaks to be made to bring it to perfection.
“This historically significant neighborhood is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful in the Los Angeles area,” says Peter Martocchio, who holds the listing with David Goldberg, both of Sotheby’s International Realty. “The home, as beautiful as it already is, has the potential to be a standout in the neighborhood. Having been in the same family for 65 years, it’s very indicative of how long owners live in this neighborhood and how infrequently the homes come on the market.”
A tree-shaded driveway tucked off to the side of the house empties out at a detached garage in the rear of the property; and out front, a lushly landscaped lawn serves as a lovely backdrop to the covered front porch. Once inside, an entry foyer with built-in bench seating flows to a living room displaying a wood-burning fireplace with a brick surround on one side, and formal dining room on the other — both adorned with quarter-sawn oak floors and coffered ceilings.
Other main-level highlights include a guest suite featuring a three-quarter bath, and brightly wallpapered studio/garden room that spills out to a terrace. The “whimsically retro” kitchen sports a colorful geometric-tiled floor and blue-and-white cabinetry, and is outfitted with stainless appliances, a vintage range and wood-clad butler’s pantry just around the corner.
Painted a dark green shade, the curving central staircase heads upstairs to five additional bedrooms, including a master suite displaying the original maple floors, French doors leading out to wraparound balcony, a walk-in closet and bath. And though there’s no pool outdoors, there is ample room for one; but for right now, the backyard is mostly laced with numerous spots for al fresco lounging and entertaining.
