225 Grand Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030
PRICE: $9,995,000 / 6BD 6BA / 7,360 SQFT
On a quiet stretch of Grand Avenue, where the rhythm of daily life feels both unhurried and deeply rooted, a new home enters the conversation in South Pasadena. This part of town carries a particular cadence—morning light filtering through mature trees, neighbors greeting one another on sidewalks that have seen generations pass, and the subtle hum of a community that values continuity as much as change. A home here is never just an address; it becomes part of an ongoing story shaped by the people who walk these streets and care for their corners of the city.
Grand Avenue itself reflects much of what defines South Pasadena: a blend of architectural character, human-scale walkability, and an everyday intimacy that resists the anonymity of larger urban grids. Whether it’s a short stroll to a nearby café, a familiar route to local schools, or an evening walk under a canopy of historic homes, the neighborhood invites participation. In this context, South Pasadena real estate is less about inventory and more about stewardship—how each property contributes to the lived experience of the city and the preservation of its distinct identity.
What makes this particular home notable is not just its presence on the block, but how it fits into the fabric of the neighborhood at a moment when many communities are reconsidering growth, heritage, and belonging. In South Pasadena, where civic engagement and pride of place run deep, each home carries an implicit responsibility: to honor the past while accommodating the present. Along Grand Avenue, that balance feels especially tangible, offering a glimpse into why people continue to invest not just in homes, but in the community itself.
Secluded behind the original estate walls, noted architect Reginald Johnson's masterful recreation of a Tuscan villa is a surprise, sited on a flat one acre parcel in the quiet South Arroyo neighborhood of Pasadena and South Pasadena. Belying the ease of quick accessibility to downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena, and freeways giving universal access to LA's network, the property offers a convenient retreat from our busy world. The Italian Renaissance Revival villa is structured with inspiring historic detail, the work of original craftsmen brought from Italy to ensure old world quality. The double doors to the two-story entry hall lead to an initial gathering space with classical columns, scaled impressively for formal gatherings, while the honed marble floors and warm woods are equally comfortable with today's barefoot indoor outdoor lifestyle. Owned by Pasadena luminaries for nearly a century, the 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom primary residence features voluminous space and height throughout with tall Palladian doors and windows filling the rooms with beautiful light and air. Formal living room and adjoining library - both with fireplaces, and a formal dining room all have direct access to outdoor patios, captivating gardens and the expansive lawn beyond. Warm, inviting chef's kitchen with casual seating area and an adjacent butler's pantry, back kitchen storage/mudroom, separate laundry room, two bedrooms and bathroom complete the lower level. The second level is divided into two distinct zones accessed from the central landing. Luxurious primary suite - with separate bedroom, dressing and sun rooms and walk-through closet and bath. Opposite is an additional bedroom suite with bath ensuite and adjoining sitting room, as well as another large bedroom with bathroom and closet ensuite. Sequestered one bedroom guest house with living room anchored by a fireplace, kitchen, bedroom and bath - all surrounded by its own hedged gardens. Swimmers pool, spacious pavilion, spa retreat, hidden rose garden and dining area with fireplace and grill. Lushly landscaped with sweeping lawn, mature specimen trees, grape arbor, secluded refuges and several fountains. Generous parking area includes carport for multiple vehicles.
Local Market Insight
South Pasadena real estate is defined by limited inventory, strong neighborhood identity, and buyers who value walkability, schools, and architectural character. Homes in this market often attract strong interest when well-positioned. This perspective is curated by Jason Bergman, a South Pasadena–based real estate advisor and founder of South Pasadena Social Club, drawing from on-the-ground market experience and local community insight. For deeper insight into South Pasadena real estate trends, pricing behavior, and neighborhood context, visit our South Pasadena Real Estate page.
Along Grand Avenue in South Pasadena, the daily rhythm of the neighborhood unfolds at a walkable pace, with tree-lined sidewalks connecting residents to nearby schools, small businesses, and familiar community spaces.
225 Grand Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030