Browse
Log in / Register
Share
A unique, architecturally significant treehouse home designed by Dennis McGuire has been listed for sale in Idyllwild, California, at $1,250,000. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom property, recently renovated, offers a private, modernist sanctuary nestled in a wooded mountainside, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. This listing represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history.
What Makes This Idyllwild Property Architecturally Significant? The home was originally designed and built in 1980 by famed architect Dennis McGuire. The current owners, Glenn McIntire and his wife, Bette, undertook a comprehensive renovation after purchasing the property in 2021. Their goal was to modernize the structure while staying true to McGuire’s original aesthetic. Key features of the mid-century modern design—a style emphasizing clean lines, integration with nature, and functional simplicity—include extensive use of natural wood, substantial exposed beams, and strategically placed windows and skylights that flood the interior with light. Bette McIntire notes, "The angles in his designs are most intriguing... His thoughtful placement of windows as well as skylights, brings in light and offers views wherever we are in the house."
What Updates and Features Does the Property Offer? The renovation honored the home's original character while introducing contemporary comforts. A key addition was a freestanding, glass-walled guest studio, referred to as "The Hut," which provides a private space for visitors. The main residence boasts a two-tier deck surrounded by trees, accessible from the interior or via a floating staircase. The upper level of the deck features a hot tub, and both tiers offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Tahquitz Rock. The owners also acquired the adjacent lot and invested in extensive landscaping, including artfully designed hiking trails that connect the main house to the guest studio.
Who Is the Ideal Buyer for This Type of Home? Based on our experience assessment, this property appeals to a specific buyer profile. Its open layout and mountainous setting may be better suited for those without very young children, though the guest studio could accommodate teenagers. Listing agent Daniel Miracle of Compass suggests the home is ideal for those seeking a creative retreat or a peaceful secondary residence. "It’s very creative and very inspiring. You have the ability to write, paint, or create music," Miracle says. The home is part of a small community of McGuire-designed dwelling owners, adding a unique social element to the purchase.
What Is the Lifestyle and Appeal of Idyllwild, California? Idyllwild offers a distinct lifestyle far removed from nearby urban centers like Los Angeles and Palm Springs, which are roughly a two-hour drive away. The town, with a population under 4,000, is known for its ban on franchise businesses, ensuring a landscape of family-owned shops and restaurants. This policy has helped maintain its quaint, rustic character. The area enjoys a cooler mountain climate compared to the desert valleys below, and the rise of remote work has contributed to its growth since 2020, making it an attractive option for those who value nature and community.
The owners are selling to relocate closer to family, concluding a meaningful chapter of stewarding this architectural gem. The property is more than a house; it is a carefully curated sanctuary. Prospective buyers should be prepared for a unique ownership experience centered on architectural appreciation and a deep connection to nature. The current owners have successfully preserved Dennis McGuire's vision while enhancing the home's functionality for modern living.
