1215 Hartwood Point Drive Pasadena , CA 91107

Welcome to 1215 Hartwood Point Drive, an architectural masterpiece designed by John Galbraith and custom-built in 1953 for Mrs. James. This home sits on an expansive 3.96-acre lot, offering a blend of flat land and canyon views, creating a serene and private retreat.Mrs. James often reflected on how this 'classic modern' home never seemed to age, with its simple yet elegant design. The exterior features warm, inviting 'rough sawn' cedar wood and a low, overhanging roofline that provides a sheltering look. It's an unpretentious yet beautiful introduction to what lies beyond.Stepping inside, you're greeted by walls of glass that merge the interior with the lush garden, making the home feel even more spacious. Mrs. James loved how the house expanded for entertaining yet felt cozy for family living.One of her favorite spots was the main living area, featuring a massive brick fireplace with a raised hearth. A skylight above this room provided balanced natural light, and in the evenings, indirect lighting created a dramatic effect, enhanced by the night-lit garden just outside.Mrs. James also cherished her dream kitchen -- not only practical but beautifully designed, with plenty of workspaces, an all-electric setup, and a marvelous pantry. The view from the kitchen window, overlooking the canyon, was a constant source of joy.Each bedroom in the house offers peaceful views, ample wardrobe space, and large mirrors in the bathrooms. The home's luminous ceilings and quality fixtures added to the sense of comfort and elegance throughout.The family room, with its redwood walls and walnut-built-ins, became a favorite gathering place for the James family. Outside, the pool area provided the perfect setting for entertaining, with a dressing room for convenience and a large concrete drive that often doubled as a dance floor.Living here meant being surrounded by nature's beauty, from majestic oak trees to the twinkling city lights visible through the trees at night. Mrs. James fondly recalled the wildlife -- raccoons, foxes, and even a peacock -- that became part of their life on the property.Mrs. James once said that living at 1215 Hartwood Point was a beautiful experience, one she would always cherish. This timeless home offers the perfect combination of comfort, design, and connection with nature.