For this week’s Friday Find, we’re heading to Pasadena to explore the famous Knoll House.
And because this property is so massive, I had to split this Friday Find into two parts. Friday Find- the knoll house
Welcome to The Knoll House, the largest single-family residence in Pasadena.
The estate is actually comprised of two separate structures:
• a 12,300 square foot main house
• a 21,000 square foot art gallery
And yes — they’re connected by an underground tunnel.
The main residence sits behind gates on a private cul-de-sac and was originally built in 1916.
It was designed by legendary architect Myron Hunt, whose work includes some of Southern California’s most iconic landmarks such as:
• The Hollywood Bowl
• The Rose Bowl
• The Huntington Library
The estate rose to even greater prominence in 1973 when its owner, art collector Virginia Steel Scott, decided she needed a place to store her growing art collection.
So she built a 21,000-square-foot museum next door.
Inside the main residence you’ll find incredible architectural details including:
• Italian marble floors
• a grand living room
• a formal dining room
• a wood-paneled library
• a chef’s kitchen
• and even an English-style pub
But some of the most fascinating details are hidden.
The home reportedly contains six secret doors and hidden passageways, some of which lead to private elevators that connect different areas of the property.
One of those secret routes even leads to the underground tunnel connecting the main house to the art gallery.
And yes… there’s even a secret “bat signal” in the elevator that triggers the hidden access.
This incredible Pasadena estate is truly unlike anything else in Southern California.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore the massive art gallery and the incredible grounds of the estate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Historic Pasadena Estates
Where is the Knoll House located?
The Knoll House is located in Pasadena, California, a historic city just northeast of Los Angeles known for its grand estates and architectural heritage.
Who designed the Knoll House?
The Knoll House was designed by renowned architect Myron Hunt, whose work includes the Hollywood Bowl, the Huntington Library, and the Rose Bowl.
What makes the Knoll House unique?
The property is the largest single-family residence in Pasadena and includes secret passageways, hidden doors, and a private tunnel connecting the main house to a separate art gallery building.
Main House: 12,300 Sq Ft | Historic Estate | Pasadena | Built 1916 | Myron Hunt Architecture
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