Tucked behind dense greenery in Pasadena’s prestigious South San Rafael enclave sits one of Southern California’s most intriguing private homes: a handcrafted lakefront estate designed by acclaimed architect Doug Ewing.
Set directly on Johnston Lake, Pasadena’s only private lake, the residence offers artisan workmanship, rare natural tranquillity and a long-standing family story. It has also served as a popular filming location, appearing in productions featuring Will Ferrell, Kristin Wiig and Halle Berry.
The estate is now listed for US $6,800,000 (approx. AUD $10,400,000).
The home occupies a prized position on Johnston Lake, a spring-fed body of water created in the 1870s when former Los Angeles mayor Prudent Beaudry dammed the San Rafael Creek. Once a public recreational spot known for boating and fishing, the lake later became part of a gated community formed in the 1950s.
Today, just 18 residences enjoy direct access to the water and the peaceful canopy formed by the surrounding oaks, pines and sycamores.
Owners Chuck and Lisa have a deep connection to the area. Chuck grew up in Pasadena, while Lisa holds a sentimental link: she once uncovered a 1921 photograph of her grandparents picnicking beside Johnston Lake, unaware that she would one day live on the very same shoreline.
The pair purchased their first lakefront property in 1989, intent on establishing a long-term family base. When a neighbouring ranch home became available in 1997, they acted immediately, buying it without inspection – encouraged by stories from their three daughters, who were captivated by the lake’s charm. By 2005, they had chosen to rebuild almost entirely, preserving just one wall of the original structure.
During their search for an architect, Chuck and Lisa repeatedly found themselves drawn to homes around Pasadena that shared a sense of warmth, detail and craftsmanship. All were the work of Doug Ewing. With that realisation, their choice became clear.
Ewing accepted the project straightaway after visiting the site, recognising its uncommon natural attributes.
Completed in 2006, the residence showcases his signature blend of Arts & Crafts principles, contemporary form and a design philosophy that places the landscape at the forefront.
The property sits on a half-acre lot with approximately 24.3 metres of lake frontage, a private 9.1-metre dock, lush lawn and multiple terraces set beneath established trees. A guest house and a series of open-air spaces provide further areas for hosting or quiet retreat.
Inside, an 18-foot (5.5-metre) beamed great room forms the heart of the home, featuring a substantial stone fireplace and a full-height wall of glass capturing uninterrupted lake views. Construction incorporates hand-hewn beams, reclaimed timber and stonework by the same artisans involved in restoring Pasadena’s iconic Gamble House.
A sought-after filming location
With its calm water outlook and handcrafted structure, the residence has been a popular choice for film and television productions, including:
- A Deadly Adoption, starring Will Ferrell and Kristin Wiig
- Extant, produced by Steven Spielberg and starring Halle Berry
- Criminal Minds
- Commercial work for Verizon, Home Depot, Fruit of the Loom and Celebrity Rehab with Dr Drew
