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The Knoll House in Pasadena, California, initially listed for a record-breaking $48 million in 2021, is now available for $36.5 million. Despite this significant price reduction, it remains the most expensive and largest single-family residence in Pasadena. This article provides a detailed overview of the estate's architectural significance, unique amenities, and current market position based on available property data.
What is the history and architectural significance of Knoll House? The estate's significance is rooted in its design by famed California luxury architects Myron Hunt and Gordon Kaufman. Hunt and Kaufman are renowned for creating Southern California landmarks such as the Huntington Library and were instrumental in the design of the Hoover Dam. The main residence, built in 1916 by Peter Hall, spans approximately 12,300 square feet. The property is a prime example of the lavish West Coast winter homes built by Gilded Age barons. It has retained its stately elegance through meticulous restoration over a seven-year period by the current owner, philanthropist and financier John Vidalakis. The estate is situated on a private 2.38-acre cul-de-sac in one of Pasadena's most esteemed neighborhoods.
What are the key features of the main residence? The main residence offers six bedrooms and ten bathrooms. Original features have been carefully preserved, including hand-carved moldings, book-matched wood paneling, and original wood, tile, and marble floors. The home includes nine fireplaces and modern luxury amenities. These include a professional-grade kitchen with Wolf and Miele appliances, a wood-paneled library, a children's play area, and a dedicated gift-wrapping room. A unique feature is a traditional sun porch that has been converted into a bright home office or homework space. The basement level boasts a substantial brick and wood-beamed wine cellar with a capacity for 2,500 bottles.
What exclusive entertainment facilities does the estate offer? A separate, spacious entertainment gallery is connected to the main house via an underground passageway. This facility is designed for sophisticated entertaining and includes a two-story atrium gallery. For leisure, it features a full tiki bar with hand-carved details, a 46-seat movie theatre with professional acoustic panels, and dedicated rooms for games, billiards, and poker. A comprehensive gym and a private guest apartment are also part of this wing. This makes the property exceptionally suited for an art collector or someone who enjoys hosting large-scale events.
What amenities are found on the grounds of the property? The maturely landscaped 2.38-acre grounds feature a variety of gardens, including formal, casual, and zen styles. The outdoor area is designed for resort-like living with a pool, spa, bocce court, and a fire pit. For outdoor entertaining, there is a covered pavilion equipped with a Wolf barbecue, a wood-burning pizza oven, and an outdoor bar featuring Perla Veneta quartzite counters. The estate's grand entrance is marked by wrought iron gates leading to a circular driveway made of hand-set and reclaimed bricks.
For a potential buyer, what is the primary value proposition? The primary value lies in owning a historically significant, architecturally unique property that offers unparalleled privacy and amenities. The price reduction to $36.5 million presents a notable market opportunity for a trophy asset. The estate's combination of preserved historical details and modern luxury facilities is rare. Furthermore, its status as the largest single-family home in Pasadena on a private cul-de-sac ensures exclusivity. Based on our experience assessment, the property's value is underscored by its $2,967 price per square foot and its extensive list of bespoke features, from the entertainment gallery to the resort-style grounds.
