Photo : Marc Angeles/Irmina Hamilton
The Mrs James Skinner House marks the highest priced home sold in San Marino in 2023. The historic home was built by star architect Wallace Neff in 1929. The home was originally listed at $21.5 million and sold for $16.2 million. The property was originally built for the widow of James Skinner, one of the founders of Sears, Roebuck and Co. department stores.
Photo : Marc Angeles/Irmina Hamilton
Neff is often credited for developing Southern California's distinctive architectural style. He was a student of architect Ralph Adams Cram who drew heavily from both Spain and Mediterranean architectural styles. Neff's European training and keen eye for historical style gave him the ability to combine Spanish, Tuscan, Mediterranean, Islamic and other design elements that melded seamlessly into what many call the "The California Style." Neff's style became highly in demand by the elite, the rich and the famous. Some of his other notable works are "the bubble house," Singer Mansion, Gillette Mansion, Pickfair Estate, Libby Ranch and the Gates Residence.
Photo : Marc Angeles/Irmina Hamilton
The Mrs. Skinner House was owned by billionaire Goodwin Gaw who purchased the home for almost $6 million in 2004. Gaw serves as the chairman of Gar Capital Partners which manages billions of dollars worth of international real estate. Gaw is also the owner of the famous Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel which he bought out of bankruptcy in 1995. The Mrs. Skinner House is an Italian Revival-style home, situated on a 1.8 acre estate. There are 9 bedrooms and 10 baths in the home and it is taped at 10,811 square feet. The home was once owned by JB Van Nuys who developed the San Fernando Valley neighborhood known as Van Nuys. Behind the gates is a driveway that leads to a motor court with a hand-carved stone fountain. In 2005 the home was the Pasadena Showcase House where it received extension remodeling. The estate has a lighted tennis court, formal gardens, a 50-foot pool and a detached two bedroom guest house, complete with a full kitchen. There is even a partially finished basement with a temperature controlled 2,5000 bottle wine cellar. Thanks to Mr. Gaw the Mrs. James Skinner House is truly a magnificent grand estate that has been well-preserved for many years to come.
Photo : Marc Angeles/Irmina Hamilton
The property was sold on September 22, 2023.
Listing Agent Representing Seller Brent Chang Compass
Selling Agent Representing Buyer Rita Whitney The Agency
