Charming 1924 Mission District Cottage in San Marino, California With Dutch Door, Subtle Archways, and a Brick Fireplace
This beautiful cottage, built in 1924 and located in San Marino’s coveted Mission District, is an exceptional example of early 20th-century California architecture, featuring classic elements such as a Dutch door, subtle archways, built-in cabinetry, and original windows. Meticulously modernized in recent years, the home offers a harmonious blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury, with updates including a cedar shake roof, new plumbing, updated electrical, central HVAC, remodeled kitchen and baths, and a stunning new primary suite. Situated on a lush, flat-rectangular parcel, the west-facing property spans 1,906 sq ft of living space, includes 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, and is offered at $1,998,000. Its location in the San Marino Unified School District enhances its family appeal, with easy access to top schools and Pasadena amenities.
Front Exterior
A charming historic American home with white clapboard siding and a brick chimney stands under the shade of mature trees, surrounded by lush green grass and meticulously landscaped flower beds edged with smooth stones. Ivy climbs one wall, softening the clean lines of the architecture. The windows feature divided panes with white trim, enhancing the cottage style. A brick and concrete walkway curves gently to the side entrance and a detached garage is visible in the background. The overall aesthetic blends classic Americana with natural beauty for a picturesque curb appeal, framed by dappled sunlight and leafy branches overhead.
Front Exterior
A charming historic American home with a classic cottage style. The house features white horizontal siding, a steeply pitched shingle roof, and a prominent red front door set beneath a small gable. Three large-paned windows, framed in white, line the front façade, letting in plenty of natural light. Manicured lawns and lush perennial beds, bordered with stones, blend seamlessly into the tree-shaded front yard. Mature trees provide dappled shade, while a concrete walkway leads directly to the entrance, evoking a sense of welcome and timeless suburban appeal.
Front Entryway
A charming exterior view of a historic American home features white-painted clapboard siding and a steeply pitched, wood-shingled roof. The central red door is framed by two lantern-style wall sconces and a small, covered stoop with brick steps, lending a welcoming touch. To either side of the entry, there are classic multi-pane windows with thick white trim that allow soft indoor lighting to spill out. Lush, well-tended landscaping includes a variety of shrubs, tall green plants, and a small garden bordered by decorative stones. A young vine climbs a trellis near the window, enhancing the cottage-like atmosphere.
Front Entryway
A charming and inviting front entryway with a warm, muted red door as the focal point, set against white wooden siding. Two classic black lantern sconces flank the door, providing symmetry and understated elegance. The roof features traditional wood shingles, contributing to the home’s historic feel. Brick steps lead up to the threshold, and the small porch is decorated with potted plants and a few seasonal pumpkins. Lush green shrubbery borders the walkway, and a leafy vine arches gracefully above one window, adding a touch of romantic cottage charm. Large white-trimmed windows bring light and openness to the space.
Front Yard View
A well-maintained grassy front lawn stretches out under the canopy of a large, mature tree, casting dappled shade across the landscape. A neat stone-lined flower bed borders the center lawn, filled with low green shrubbery and young plants. The home features a classic American cottage design, with white siding, grid-paned windows, and a steeply pitched shingled roof. Ivy grows up the house’s exterior, adding a touch of historic charm. To the right, a brick and concrete driveway leads past the house toward a detached white garage. The tranquil scene is framed by leafy trees and lush greenery.
Front Entryway
A classic colonial architectural style is highlighted by cream-colored horizontal siding and a split Dutch door painted in vibrant red. The lower half of the door is closed while the upper half opens into a warmly lit hallway. On either side of the entry, black lantern-style wall sconces provide symmetry and traditional charm. A rope doormat sits on a brick walkway flanked by lush green plants with purple flowers. To the left is a weathered wooden garden bench, while to the right, a decorative black mailbox is affixed to the siding. The overall effect is welcoming, picturesque, and timelessly American.
Living Room Details
Spacious living room with an inviting and airy atmosphere, featuring a brick fireplace with a white mantle as the focal point. Neutral walls and wide-trimmed windows allow ample daylight, enhanced by soft gray and cream tones. The room is furnished with a white sofa adorned with patterned throw pillows, two rattan armchairs with plush cushions, and a round wooden coffee table decorated with florals and books. A geometric-patterned area rug covers the hardwood floor, while a large potted plant and a table lamp add touches of greenery and warmth. The space blends classic and contemporary elements for a cozy, welcoming feel.
Living Room and Dining Area
A spacious living room seamlessly transitions into a dining area through a wide arched opening. The living area features a traditional red brick fireplace with a white wooden mantel and a large mirror above it. A plush white sofa accented with patterned cushions sits opposite two light wooden armchairs around a circular wooden coffee table. The floor is polished dark hardwood with a geometric gray area rug. Soft neutral walls and ample natural light from large, divided windows create an airy atmosphere. Built-in shelving, greenery, and minimalistic decorative pieces add warmth and elegance to the inviting space.
Living Room and Dining
An open-concept living area flows seamlessly into the dining space, featuring rich dark wood flooring and soft gray walls that create a serene, airy atmosphere. The room is anchored by a red brick fireplace with a white mantle, accented by greenery and decorative pieces. A plush sofa and a pair of woven armchairs are arranged around a circular wooden coffee table atop a geometric-patterned rug. Built-in shelving and cabinetry line one wall, adding both storage and display space. Elegant archways and abundant windows fill the space with natural light, highlighting the room’s historic charm and understated sophistication.
Dining Room View
A bright dining area featuring a rectangular light wood table surrounded by four deep blue cushioned chairs. The room is airy, thanks to large windows along the left side, allowing natural light to pour in and illuminate the soft cream walls and white trim. A simple pendant light hangs above the table. Decorative details include a macramé wall hanging and fresh greenery in a patterned vase at the table’s center, adding vibrancy. The dining room flows seamlessly into a spacious living area, marked by wide arches, built-in shelving, and warm-toned hardwood flooring that continues throughout, creating a cohesive historic yet modern feel.
Kitchen Island
A spacious, elegant kitchen featuring deep navy cabinetry with gold hardware and a large central island topped with white marble. Two modern backless stools with cushioned seats are tucked under the island, which is adorned with a vase of white flowers and a decorative bowl. Stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator and oven, complement the cabinetry. The countertops are white marble, coordinating with the marble backsplash behind the range. Warm wood floors add a cozy touch, while brass fixtures and pendant lighting provide a sophisticated accent. Large windows along one wall bring in an abundance of natural light, enhancing the inviting ambiance.
Kitchen Island
Spacious kitchen with a central marble-topped island featuring dark cabinetry and brass hardware, complemented by a trio of vintage-style brass pendant lights overhead. The perimeter counters are also marble, with matching dark lower cabinets and a farmhouse sink set below a wide row of windows, letting natural light flood the space. Warm wood floors add richness and contrast. Through a wide doorway framed in white trim, a dining area is visible, furnished with a wooden table, upholstered navy chairs, and large windows. The overall aesthetic is airy and refined, balancing classic and contemporary design elements.
Kitchen Stove Area
A compact and elegant kitchen corner features navy blue cabinetry with brass pulls and knobs, creating a classic yet bold color scheme. The countertops are marbled, echoing the sophisticated look of the backsplash behind the stainless steel range. Warm hardwood floors provide a rich and inviting contrast to the blue cabinets. On the counters, a teakettle sits atop the stove, while a cutting board, towel, and a few small containers add practical details. Brass hardware and simple cabinet paneling add historic charm, blending traditional elements with modern touches in clean, crisp lines.
Bedroom Details
A sunlit bedroom furnished with a queen-sized bed centered against a wall of large, mullioned windows, letting in abundant natural light. The bed features a soft, tufted headboard in neutral tones, layered with white linens, a textured blue blanket, and assorted throw pillows in shades of blue and tan. Matching nightstands flank the bed, each topped with a modern lamp featuring a geometric base and white shade. A sleek console table with a cross-braced design sits against one wall, decorated with minimalist accents including a checkerboard box, a plant, and books. The space is cohesive, airy, and exudes calm sophistication.
Children’s Bedroom
A bright children’s bedroom features two white spindle twin beds separated by a wooden dresser with two matching lamps, topped with books and a potted plant. Each bed is dressed in white linens with blue and patterned accent pillows, and a plush teddy bear sits on one bed. Three large, grid-pane windows line the walls, framed by pale Roman shades, letting in ample daylight and offering views of green trees outside. A realistic tall plush giraffe stands at the foot of one bed. The hardwood floor is partially covered by a textured neutral area rug, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Bathroom Details
A charming bathroom features blush pink walls and cabinetry, creating a soft, vintage-inspired ambiance. The bathtub is enclosed within a white subway tile alcove, with the tiles set vertically to add visual interest. A pedestal sink with traditional chrome fixtures stands below a large, framed mirror. The floor is finished with small hexagonal white tiles accented by small black dots. A modern sconce light above the mirror provides bright illumination. A small round table beside the tub displays a simple white vase holding delicate flowers, adding a fresh touch to the space’s warm and inviting color palette.
Primary Bedroom
A spacious bedroom with a neutral color palette of soft creams and light grays fills the scene. The plush, tufted headboard and neatly arranged pillows create an inviting bed, layered with blankets and throws. Matching black wood nightstands flank the bed, each topped with a modern lamp and coordinated decor. Large windows with cream and sage drapes allow natural light to brighten the room. Opposite the bed, a sleek dresser displays fresh flowers and a framed photograph. An arched mirror in the corner expands the sense of space, while subtle recessed lighting and a central ceiling fixture enhance the gentle, serene ambiance.
Walk-In Closet
A spacious walk-in closet featuring built-in cabinetry painted in a soft gray shade, creating a unified and serene atmosphere. The cabinetry offers open shelving, hanging rods with several wooden hangers, and drawers for ample storage. Two woven baskets add a natural touch, complementing the neutral palette. A textured jute rug lies on the light carpeted floor, adding warmth and subtle contrast. A large window with sheer white curtains lets in natural light, framed by classic molding that matches the gray color scheme. The overall aesthetic feels clean, elegant, and practical, suitable for organized storage in a historic home.
Bathroom Vanity
A bright bathroom features a large, cream-colored dual-sink vanity with polished silver fixtures and ample storage below. The countertop is a sleek white marble with subtle gray veining, decorated with fresh white flowers in a vase. Above, a large rectangular mirror with a slim, dark frame is flanked by two modern wall sconces emitting a soft, warm glow. To the left is a spacious walk-in shower, enclosed by clear glass and finished with tan, hand-laid square tiles that stretch up to the ceiling. Sunlight filters softly through a small curtained window, enhancing the inviting, serene atmosphere.
Back Door Entryway
A pair of light blue French doors opens wide to a sunlit backyard with gravel paths, potted greenery, and a view of a detached garage with vintage siding. Inside, diamond-patterned terracotta floor tiles add warmth, while creamy walls and white trim create a bright, inviting transition space. A small, elegant desk with a mid-century wooden chair sits to the right, adorned with a decorative vase of dried flowers and a mirror. Natural light streams through the glass panels, reflecting off the glossy tile. Functional wall hooks and thoughtful plant placement evoke a cozy, lived-in charm.
Outdoor Patio
A sunlit patio area just outside a house features gravel underfoot and is bordered by lush, well-tended garden beds with potted plants and flowering greenery. The patio is furnished with modern wicker lounge chairs topped with pale cushions and a small circular stone table at the center. The home’s exterior is painted a soft white with crisp aquamarine trim, and both double doors and windows open to the patio, inviting seamless flow between indoors and outdoors. Brick steps lead from the house to the patio, and the space captures a relaxed, welcoming ambiance ideal for gatherings or quiet moments.
Patio Seating Area
A sunlit patio features a gravel ground with two distinct zones: a relaxed seating space at the forefront and an outdoor dining area further back. Four wooden armchairs with light cushions surround a small stone coffee table adorned with a white vase of flowers, set near potted greenery and blue French doors leading indoors. The dining zone includes a wooden table with six matching chairs, perfectly situated for al fresco meals. The space is bordered by lush landscaping—tall cypress trees, manicured hedges, and blooming bushes—which provide privacy and a serene, vibrant atmosphere. The overall look balances natural comfort with inviting elegance.
Outdoor Patio
A charming courtyard patio designed with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. The ground is covered in light gravel, bordered by garden beds with lush green plants and blooming flowers. A wooden dining table surrounded by six matching chairs sits at the center, with decorative lanterns as the table centerpiece. Beyond the dining area, a small sitting space features a cozy outdoor sofa and armchairs, complemented by potted plants for added greenery. The home’s exterior is painted crisp white with classic wood trim, and large windows allow plenty of natural light. Overarching trees cast gentle shade, contributing to the serene garden feel.
Backyard and Patio
A lush green lawn stretches across the yard, bordered by mature trees, shrubs, and flowering plants. The main house showcases classic white siding with crisp trim and multiple windows, giving a cozy, historic cottage feel. A gravel pathway leads to a charming outdoor patio area with wooden dining furniture and potted plants, creating a welcoming spot for gatherings or relaxation. The landscape is thoughtfully maintained, blending open grass space with natural elements, while the bright blue sky and filtered sunlight accentuate the inviting, peaceful atmosphere of this well-kept backyard retreat.
Garden Patio
A charming outdoor patio area sits alongside the house, with a lush green lawn leading to a gravel surface. A large wooden dining table with matching benches and chairs creates a welcoming spot for al fresco meals. The space is bordered by flourishing rose bushes and potted plants, adding splashes of green and soft pink. The exterior of the house features white horizontal siding and multi-pane windows, complemented by a small detached structure with similar cladding. Tall trees provide shade in the background, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed, sunlit, and ideal for gatherings or quiet relaxation.
Patio Entrance
Outdoor seating area adjacent to the home features three cushioned wooden chairs arranged around a circular coffee table, set atop a gravel surface. A navy throw and pillows create a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Lush green shrubbery and potted plants line the house’s exterior, and vines climb around a set of blue French doors, which serve as the main entry from the patio into the house. The house’s facade is painted a pale gray-blue, accented by white-framed windows. A neat lawn and mulched flower beds border the area, contributing to a relaxed, cottage-inspired aesthetic.
Patio Seating Area
A charming outdoor patio bordered by a historic white clapboard house with dark wooden shingle roofing. The space features cozy conversational seating with wooden armchairs, a loveseat, and a central coffee table arranged on a gravel surface. A separate wooden dining table with matching chairs invites guests to dine al fresco. Lush landscaping with potted plants, flowering bushes, and manicured greenery surround the courtyard, offering privacy and enhancing the home’s cottage appeal. French doors and an array of multi-paned windows allow natural light into the home, blending indoor comfort with serene outdoor living.
Property Overview
Aerial view of a residential neighborhood featuring a historic American home surrounded by mature trees and lush greenery. The house at the center has a pitched brown roof and white exterior, nestled among similarly styled homes with traditional architectural elements, such as chimneys and gabled roofs. The backyard features manicured landscaping separated from neighboring properties by fences and hedges, while a turquoise rectangular pool and red-tile roof can be seen adjacent. Curved streets and sidewalks run through the neighborhood, bordered by tall trees, creating a charming and peaceful suburban atmosphere. Neighboring houses display a cohesive look with varying roof colors and garden sizes.
Listing Agent: James Tripodes of COMPASS via Zillow
