An Architect’s Own Post-and-Beam in Pasadena, $1.88M

Author:Philip Ferrato

With a career that’s been under the radar too long, David Alexman, AIA  [1933-2011]  was a USC-trained architect and educator, working and teaching in California and Nevada. The home he designed and built for his family in Pasadena’s San Rafael Hills is on the market for only the second time since it was built in 1966, in almost original condition, sensitively upgraded by the current owner.

The Axelman Residence is very much of its moment, a modest but sleek 2-level post-and-beam that hovers above the street in a grove of eucalyptus trees, concealing a very private garden. Access is through the carport next to a ground floor studio via a hidden, 2-story atrium, effectively separating work and family life, and the living room is anchored by an immense stone fireplace executed in split travertine veneer, echoing the hammered aggregate finishes of the contemporaneous Brutalist movement.

What We Love: It’s one of those rare houses where you can sense the architect’s original drawings coming alive. And the perfect setting for a collection of Mid-Century art and design; The large sculpture is an early work by Altadena sculptor Eric Zamit.

The lower level acts like a retaining wall, allowing for a low-slung rear facade on the second floor, opening to the intimate garden.

Below, the primary suite opens to the garden. There are two additional bedrooms and baths, and the studio could easily be used as a fourth bedroom.

More: Go to the listing for additional images, details, and a floor plan. A unique opportunity to own a beautifully conceived and executed Mid-Century home in an historic Pasadena neighborhood, represented by architecture specialist Nat Cole of Modern California House.

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