3740 Canyon Crest

Up a secluded private road in a grove of California live oaks is a creative haven with a unique legacy. 'Boulder Crest' is singular: a historic marvel, an architectural gem, a property rising from the landscape -- an enduring biophilic design. Built of massive granite boulders placed at the beginning of the 20th century, the house and grounds are a feat of vision, engineering and artisan masonry. This home seamlessly melds arts and crafts elements with mid-century modernism - the net effect is timeless - from arroyo stone work and old growth redwood to post & beam construction. Serpentine stone-lined pathways cross a network of masonry channels and terraces on the approach to the entry. A keystone engraved '1912' heralds over the arched double door, opening to reveal rich jade-hued concrete floors. Redwood paneling, vaulted beamed ceilings and oversize pendant lanterns warm a jaw-dropping step-down living room, anchored by the floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and wall of windows. The living room connects to both the dining room and galley kitchen with rock walls and clerestory windows, as well as the first bedroom and adjacent den (once a gold vault, ready to be reimagined as a music room, meditation space, or quiet office). Even the 3/4 bath boasts a beautiful river rock wall that imparts a feeling of warmth and security. Upstairs, a spacious art studio enjoys canyon vistas, a private patio and calming sounds of the corten steel water feature. Past shoji screens with encapsulated botanical elements, find the generous primary suite, with its own wall of windows, large cantilevered deck with treetop and pool views, and impeccable full bath. Adjacent, a lofted library space overlooks the living room, separate from the public space, but connected by the beautiful curved stone staircase. The 2.75 acre grounds comprise a large private pool, subterranean workshop, wine cellar, patios, two car garage and over 160 oak trees on two parcels (one measuring 69,006 SF and a second, completely separate lot measuring 50,625 SF). The property sits adjacent to El Prieto Canyon (famed burial place of abolitionist Owen Brown), and at the base of Millard Canyon - in winter, the stream flowing through Angeles National Forest can be heard from the yard. This rare historic home has had just three owners (artists or visionaries, all) -- recognized by Altadena Heritage and published a handful of times, it remains largely under the radar and relaxed. What a joy it is to behold.