Case Study Architect Whitney R. Smith’s SoCal Residence Lists for $2.35M

The landmarked home and studio in Pasadena was Smith’s principal residence throughout most of his career.

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This South Pasadena home was the primary residence of Case Study architect Whitney R. Smith for nearly all of his momentous career, from the 1930s until his retirement in the ’80s. Since then, it’s been thoroughly modernized, though the bones remain as a testament to Smith’s vision for living in harmony with the surroundings.

This landmarked property in South Pasadena, California, was the home of architect Whitney R. Smith and his wife, Virginia, for nearly 50 years.

A large living area sits behind the expansive glass facade, which allows views of the front patio and lush garden.

According to local records, Smith and his wife, Virginia, purchased the property shortly after their marriage in 1936, later transforming what was originally a garage and guesthouse for the neighboring bungalow into a three-bedroom home for their family.

While he was living there, Smith emerged as one of California’s preeminent post-WWII architects, working alongside his partner Wayne R. Williams to complete numerous award-winning projects. In addition to participating in the famous Case Study House program, Smith and Williams also joined architect A. Quincy Jones and engineer Edgardo Contini in creating the acclaimed Mutual Housing Association development, today known as the Crestwood Hills neighborhood.

Smith expanded an early 1900s guesthouse to create a larger residence for his family. The home has since been renovated while retaining elements of the original structure.

A raised dining area is located just behind the living room and features a continuation of the floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Offering just over 1,900 square feet of living space, the Smith residence retains its original three-bedroom layout, with all of the bedrooms and two full bathrooms arranged neatly along one side of the home. Notably, the principal suite provides direct access to the expansive patio, which also wraps around to the front of the home.

The dining area leads into a galley-style kitchen at the rear of the home.

Another view of the kitchen shows more of the modern cabinetry and appliances.

A door in the kitchen provides access to raised vegetable beds along the side of the home.

Sited on a 7,700-square-foot lot, the property was designated Pasadena City Landmark No. 52 on April 20, 2011, which also entitles the new owners to certain tax deductions under the Mills Act. Keep scrolling to see more of the historic home, currently listed for $2,350,000.