A Greene & Greene Adventure at Pasadena's Bolton House

While much of my life revolves around the natural environment of the Arroyo Seco River corridor, the region's built environment, especially the Arts & Crafts Movement architecture so prevalent here, drives much of what we often refer to as 'Arroyo Culture.'

The Cultural Heritage Committee of the Pasadena-Foothills Association of Realtors just hosted its Winter Home Tour, and I was able to join other Greene & Greene architectural enthusiasts for an intimate tour of Pasadena's Bolton House.

Built in 1906 by Henry Greene and Charles Greene for Dr. William T. Bolton, this grand example of both early Craftsman architecture and furniture was restored by Architect Tim Andersen and was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Current owner Tom Reitze led a lively discussion of Greene & Greene character details found in the home, followed by a personal tour of the public rooms and master suite.  He pointed out a number of unique features, including the sliding doors on the china cabinets to keep glassware and china from falling out during an earthquake.

Thank you, Katie Adams Barnett, who spent many youthful years at the Bolton House, for arranging this informative and delightful tour.

Arroyo Property of the Week

Once upon a time, North Los Robles Avenue was the grandest tree-lined boulevard in Pasadena.

There, in 1911, Greene and Greene Master Builder Peter Hall (who also built the Gamble House) constructed the Tilghman Swaim Home with architectural plans created by Parker O. Wright.

A Pasadena Cultural Heritage Landmark, the Tilghman Swaim home reflects the rare Classic Box substyle of Chicago Prairie Design.

From its grand porch and entryway through its spacious common living areas, the home embodies the highest level of attention to quality and detailing that marked a Greene and Greene creation.

The 2800 square foot home sits regally on its 9100 square lot footprint. It has 4 bedrooms and 4 baths with almost all of its original detailing, including double hung windows and clapboard siding, still intact. The property boasts extensive use of redwood built-ins and cabinets.

The property also includes a legal duplex, perfect for separate guest quarters or an income opportunity.

The Tilghman Swaim home has now come on the market for sale for the first time in 30 years. House hunters and preservation/historic home aficionados alike will have the rare opportunity to explore the property's interior this Sunday, June 28th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

Take a Sunday drive and come see this special piece of living history: http://www.1165northlosrobles.com/.