Early Greene & Greene predates Craftsman designs. A year after opening their Pasadena office in 1894, architects Charles and Henry Greene designed their fifth home, a Colonial Revival. They would not discover Arts & Crafts for six years. Today, set on a 32,721s.f. urban farm and restored in a 27-year labor of love that won the 2009 City of Pasadena Historic Preservation Award, the house is a charming time capsule with a modern heart. Original fir floors, window glass, interior hardware and gas/wood fireplace are enhanced by central AC/heat, copper plumbing, updated electrical, French drains and foundation bolting. The period jewel was once owned by Rose Parade ‘First Lady’ Isabella S. Coleman, for whom a float award is named. The Greenes’ design moves from a wraparound front porch to an entry parlor and high-ceilinged formal living and dining rooms. A bedroom with full bathroom is nearby. Upstairs are two more bedrooms, an adjacent nursery or office space, and a utility closet.
There are a 1,334 square foot basement and a newer double-loft barn with full insulation, heat and air, and new cable-ready electrical. The Pasadena Architectural and Historic Inventory called it ‘a fine example of the very early work of two of America’s most important architects.’
