I’m still excited! Yesterday I had the special pleasure of visiting Pasadena’s Nationally Registered Historic Monument and Officially Designated Pasadena Treasure, Castle Green, built in 1898 by architect Frederick I. Roehrig. Situated in the heart of what is now referred to as Old Town Pasadena, it was designed blending Spanish, Victorian, and Moorish styles.
As a new home buyer in Pasadena, I was immediately drawn to this magnificent building as it is a commanding and striking work of art. Its exterior virtually unchanged, it’s not hard to imagine what it must have been like in the 19th Century when it catered to the wealthy vacationers. Yet as with any old building, it has been in need of ongoing restoration, which is provided by The Friends of the Castle Green, a non-profit organization that raises money to restore and maintain this Pasadena gem. The Public rooms are a popular venue for weddings, special events, and parties, all of which raise funds to aid in the restoration. Twice a year, tours are held to allow the public to view this incredible piece of local history. Additionally, numerous movies and commercials have been filmed in and around the property over the years.
Which brings me to why I was lucky enough to finally see the inside of this historical monument that has captivated my attention for so long. The Castle Green is now a high end condominium complex that houses 52 privately owned units. The units are still very ornate and lavishly decorated, keeping with the original style and feel of the building. The one I viewed today is actually two hotel rooms joined together to make one larger unit which makes it especially nice as there is two of almost everything; fireplaces, bathrooms, Murphy beds, and verandas overlooking the city below. A cute kitchen situated in between what used to be the separate hotel rooms, ties the 4th floor unit together nicely. Two words, adorable and elegant, at the same time!
The HOA fees give the lucky new occupant full use of the lush, extensive grounds and common rooms within the Castle Green and also have the added bonus of a designated parking space in the nearby Schoolhouse parking garage for the low monthly rate of an extra $25 per month! I want that! What a deal!
I hope you enjoy this unique property as much as I did. I feel like I took a step backward in time and it was every bit as wonderful as I imagined it would be.
[idx-listing mlsnumber=”315002346″ showfeatures=”true” showlocation=”true”]Becky Robertson is a Real Estate agent who is passionate about the character-filled homes that flood the San Gabriel Valley. She is an avid outdoorswoman who can frequently be found running and hiking the numerous trails Pasadena and the surrounding areas have to offer. Follow her blogs as she details her experiences exploring the various canyons as well as showcasing local businesses that cater to healthy lifestyles.
