Potter Daniels Manor 2024 Pasadena Showcase House
“A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Nestled against the verdant embrace of Pasadena, Potter Daniels Manor stands as a magnificent testament to timeless elegance and historical significance. Revered as the 2024 Pasadena Showcase House of Design and adorned with the prestigious designation of a Pasadena City Landmark, this exquisite estate bears witness to a bygone era or opulence and refinement. “- the Pasadena Showcase House of Design brochure.
Originally built in 1902 as a winter home for Chicago luminary Gertrude Potter Daniels, it really came into its own under the ownership of Susanna Bransford Emery Holmes known as the Silver Queen. It was during this time that the house was reimaged as the English Tudor Revival Masterpiece that stands till today.
The house itself has been the Pasadena Design Showcase in the 1970s,1996 and now in 2024. For a ticket price of $30 to $40 the house is open to visitors through the middle of May and definitely worth a visit both interior and exterior.
Crossing the threshold enter into an impressive foyer with walnut paneled walls, hand painted murals and a staircase with intricately carved banisters leading the way to the upper levels. Throughout the house are beautiful light fixtures and chandeliers, each more impressive than the next, starting with the stunning 26 light leaf chandelier that graces the entry foyer.
The first floor consists of public entertainment areas, starting with the stately living room with its grand piano.
The Stately Dining room with its custom silver and china place settings gleams under another stunning chandelier which lights up the beautifully painted ceiling as well as the gleaming table settings.
A harp stands on the ready to entertain the diners as they enjoy their multicourse dinner.
Of course, there was no harpist as we toured through these rooms but as I learned from my chat with the designer of this section of the house, they have been looking for one. Interested parties might want to reach out.
Another stunning Murano Chandelier shines down on the sideboard.
As you pass through the back patio the gardens bloom with succulent and California wildflowers. Of course, we first came into the back, admired the gardens before making our way to the front and the entrance.
A library, reading room, etc. This window seat was one of my favorites. I could absolutely imagine myself curling up with the good book and a lap blanket enjoying the view of the gardens.
I also loved the eclectic bookshelves that contained all manner of curiosities like cameras through the ages, an old-fashioned telephone and even a replica of R2D2 of Star Wars fame.
These mullioned windows stretch all the way to the top floor with hand painted murals bookending it.
There are three bedrooms on the upper level. I absolutely loved the master bedroom and since I happen to be in the redecorating frame of mind, took note of some easily implementable items, (I hope!).
This bedroom was termed the romantic room, to me it appeared to be the peacock themed room with is dark colors and full-length mirrors and huge stuffed peacock.
Not very restful from my perspective but decoration is a matter of taste and preference that is completely subjective.
Despite its age, there is a lift, appropriately labeled in stained glass of course. No, it was not in use for visitors but apparently it does work.
The nursery. What a wonderful dream room for a baby.
The side gardens offered many practical tips that one could incorporate into one’s own garden. My friend @Malachana told me that she actually took a ceramics class and would like to see if she could create these planters for her own garden.
We took the time to enjoy a cold drink at a table in one of the gardens enjoying the afternoon before stopping in and browsing through the shops at the showcase. And yes! absolutely bought a few things.
The coach house was a separate mini house located on the grounds with its own kitchen, dining, living room and bedrooms. A perfect mother-in-law or dowager home.
One last glance at this beautiful manor that rivals some of the stately homes many of us travel to Europe to see.
I have only offered a sneak peek at some of the areas but there’s a lot more here to see and admire and take home.