Mediterranean style homes became popular in coastal areas of the United States in the 1920s. This architectural style was inspired by the grand architecture of Italian Renaissance, with sweeping symmetrical facades that inspired onlookers. In Pasadena, California, Mediterranean style homes were popularized by such architects as Paul Williams, Bertram Goodhue, and Sumner Spaulding. Much of the public architecture in Pasadena is in the Mediterranean style, including the famous Pasadena City Hall.
Besides the cosmetic beauty of Mediterranean style homes, there was also a very practical reason to build homes in this style in Pasadena and surrounding cities. The climate in the area is very similar to the climate along the Mediterranean, and the architectural style was designed to keep the house cool in a hot, arid climate. The stucco walls help to insulate the houses against the hot summer sun, and features such as porticos and tile roofs with eaves serve to provide more shade. The interior walls of the houses are generally a light shade, and these homes in California also often have swimming pools. One of the most famous architects who worked in the Mediterranean style was Paul Williams. Williams was an American architect who worked out of Los Angeles for much of the twentieth century. He designed homes for many movie stars, including Lucille Ball, Frank Sinatra and Tyrone Power. His Mediterranean style homes feature such classic details as stuccoed walls, tile roofs, arches and window grilles.
Pasadena City Hall, originally built in 1927 for $1.3 million, is a great example of the California Mediterranean architecture. The City Hall that we see today has been seismically reinforced and renovated in 2007 (a three year project!) and should be on everyone's "things to do list" when visiting Pasadena. The interior courtyard is as stunning as the outside architecture. Historical and architectural elements can be seen at every turn. It's also a great photo pic opportunity for visitors and residents alike.
The Mediterranean style lends itself to eclectic designs, and it includes everything from ornate Italianate villas to small farmhouses. One feature that is common to most Mediterranean style homes is a sense of privacy for the family who lives within. Mediterranean style homes are both practical as well as elegant, and they look perfect in beautiful California surroundings. There are a great many of these beautiful homes to be seen all over San Gabriel Valley.
Pasadena has many Mediterranean style homes. Take a look at a few houses for sale below. To see a complete list, sign up for a home search account.
Welcome to your elegant townhome complete with soaring ceilings, luxe finishes, and an exceptionally spacious floor plan! Nestled in the exclusive Arlington Green complex...
Home at last! Located in the highly sought-after Bungalow Heaven Landmark District, this Mediterranean Revival-style home, also known as the Dr. Gail H. Van Wye house, wa...
You can look no further- if you have been searching for that special 1920s Spanish Revival bungalow in a great neighborhood, this home is it. Situated on a spacious lot i...
Discover this Spanish-style charmer, nestled in the heart of the highly sought-after San Rafael Rose Bowl area, first time on the market in 2 decades. Explore the charm o...
Gated Mediterranean single-family home, located in one of the most desirable and exclusive areas of Pasadena. Sitting on a 33,000+ sqft flat lot, designed by Gustavo Leit...
Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of . This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.