881 S Grand AVE Open House Save Request In-Person Tour Request Virtual Tour
Pasadena,CA 91105
OPEN HOUSE
Thu Mar 20, 11:00am - 2:00pm Sat Mar 22, 1:00pm - 4:00pm Sun Mar 23, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Key Details
Property Type Single Family Home
Sub Type Single Family Residence
Listing Status Active
Purchase Type For Sale
Square Footage 4,215 sqft
Price per Sqft $830
MLS Listing ID PF25058253
Bedrooms 4
Full Baths 4
Year Built 1961
Lot Size 0.278 Acres
Property Sub-Type Single Family Residence
Property Description
Architecturally Significant Mid-Century Modern Residence
"The Cracker Jack House"
Originally designed in 1961 by renowned architect Richard F. McCarthy, Jr., this renovated Pasadena residence blends historic charm with modern upgrades. Behind a private, gated entrance, this 4,215 sq. ft. residence features expansive living areas, a fully updated guest house, and beautifully landscaped grounds.
At the heart of this architecturally significant mid-century residence, the sunlit atrium is a stunning focal point. Enclosed by solar-reflecting double-pane glass, this tranquil indoor sanctuary features a built-in fountain, custom lighting, and a dedicated 3-ton climate system, seamlessly linking the home's living spaces while flooding them with natural light.
The spacious living and dining rooms have been reconfigured to maximize openness. Herringbone French oak floors, a restored stone fireplace, and a custom retractable TV mount enhance warmth and elegance. The chef's kitchen is both functional and stylish, featuring a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf 6-burner range, Caesarstone countertops, custom alder cabinetry, and a Carrera marble backsplash.
The primary suite is a private retreat with custom alder doors, a walk-in closet, and a spa-like en-suite bath featuring a freestanding soaking tub, heated floors, and Perrin & Rowe fixtures. Each bedroom has been thoughtfully updated with premium finishes, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout.
Smart home features include CAT6 ethernet, Unifi networking, Sonos audio, Nest thermostats, and a Ring security system. The EV-ready garage is equipped with 50-amp wiring and Chamberlain MyQ smart openers.
The backyard is an entertainer's dream, featuring a 10-foot-deep pool and spa with custom seating ledges, a new Pentair heating system, and a resurfaced pool deck. Additional upgrades include new irrigation, landscape lighting, a motorized driveway gate, and preserved historic oak trees. The fully updated guest house/ADU offers a full kitchen, new HVAC, and a spa-like bath, perfect for guests or flexible living arrangements.
A home rich in Pasadena history, this residence was originally owned by Nicholas Griffin, a Pasadena Symphony patron and direct descendant of Frederick William Rueckheim, founder of Cracker Jack. The renovations preserve its mid-century roots while introducing modern luxury and cutting-edge design.
Location
State CA
County Los Angeles
Area 647 - Pasadena (Sw)
Zoning PSR4
Interior
Heating Central
Cooling Central Air,Dual
Fireplaces Type Gas,Great Room,Living Room
Inclusions All appliances.
Laundry Washer Hookup,Gas Dryer Hookup,Laundry Room
Exterior
Parking Features Concrete,Door-Multi,Driveway,Garage,Garage Door Opener,Gated
Garage Spaces 2.0
Garage Description 2.0
Pool In Ground,Private
Community Features Curbs,Sidewalks
View Y/N Yes
View Pool
Building
Lot Description 0-1 Unit/Acre
Dwelling Type House
Story 1
Sewer Public Sewer
Water Public
New Construction No
Schools
School District Pasadena Unified
Others
Acceptable Financing Cash,Conventional
Listing Terms Cash,Conventional
Special Listing Condition Standard