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Stream runs through this serene home for sale in California. Take a look

An estate that has landed on the California market in Pasadena is not only serenity come to life, but it also embodies history of a time once forgotten.

Designed by a famous postwar design firm, the Norton House is a prime example of blending architectural wonder with a cool, zen-like flow throughout the 2,564-square-foot, four-bedroom, three-bathroom home.

It’s listed for $2.75 million.

“A Southwest Pasadena masterwork of Post & Beam Modernism, designed by Buff, Straub & Hensman, FAIA — nestled from view within a cluster of trees and uniquely sited to take advantage of the natural ‘small suburban stream’ that gently meanders through the property,” the listing on Compass says.

“Originally built in 1954, the architectural triumph is achieved through the simplicity of its rectangular programmatic design and restrained compilation of concrete, douglas fir and walls of glass.”

Designed by a famous postwar design firm, the Norton House is a prime example of blending architectural wonder with a stream and zen-like flow throughout all 2,564 square feet of it.
Designed by a famous postwar design firm, the Norton House is a prime example of blending architectural wonder with a stream and zen-like flow throughout all 2,564 square feet of it. STERLING REED

Features about the property, per the listing, include:

  • Balconies
  • Cork flooring
  • Fireplace
  • Remodeled kitchen
  • Storage
  • Lower-level bedroom
  • Carport
The 2,564-square-foot home for sale in Pasadena, California, for $2.75 million has four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
The 2,564-square-foot home for sale in Pasadena, California, for $2.75 million has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. STERLING REED

The most dramatic aspect about the house is the Jack and Jill bathroom “garden” — overlooking a small Japanese garden — that was featured in Sunset Magazine in 1958. There’s also an abundance of ponds, patios, pathways and a flowing stream that cascades through the house, a news release says.

The home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.

The home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
The home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. STERLING REED
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This story was originally published September 15, 2025 at 6:02 PM with the headline "Stream runs through this serene home for sale in California. Take a look."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
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