south coast highway - city of laguna beach - home

SOUTH COAST HIGHWAY #lo

IDENTIFICATION

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1. Common name: South Coast Highway

State of California - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY

2. Historic name: Coast Boulevard

Ser. NO. 30-2651-10-D

H A B S H A E R N R X S H L L o c - UTM: A 4w-m B 119~$!Q/37n97/ln

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M u l t i p l e 3. Street or rural address:

City Laguna Beach zip 92651 county O r a n ~ e

4. Parcel number: M u l t i p l e

5. Present Owner: M u l t i p l e Address:

City Zip Ownership is: Public Private x x 6. Present Use: Mixed Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Settlement cottages, Craftsman, Per iod Revival, Moderne 7b. Briefly describe the present physicaldescription of the site or structure and describe any major alterations from i t s

original condition: South Coast Highway i s the primary a r t e r i a l through the City o f Laguna Beach which runs from Broadway S t ree t i n the downtown t o the southern c i t y l i m i t s . Though i t i s predominantly a commercial thoroughfare now, i t was o r i g i n a l l y devoted 1 arge ly t o beach cottages. Many o f the o r i g i n a l cottages s t i l l remain but are now used f o r commercial purposes. Subsequent t o the development o f the homes, South Coast Highway became increas ing ly important as a commercial roadway, and beginning i n the mid 201s, bu i l d ings began t o be constructed expressly fo r commercial purposes.

What e x i s t s today i s a v a r i e t y o f bu i l d ings dat ing from as e a r l y as 1888 i n one case t o the present. The bulk o f homes and bu i l d ings i temized here date t o the per iod from 1915-35. Most are i n good t o exce l len t cond i t i on and are w e l l maintained.

A range o f uses and s t y l e s e x i s t s which makes South Coast Highway a unique and dynamic a r t e r i a l . Sty les range from e a r l y board and bat ten sett lement cottages t o Period Revival commercial archi tecture. These various s t y l e s were executed on bui l d ings used as homes, apartments, hotels, gas stat ions, o f f i c e bu i l d ings and r e t a i l stores.

Attach Photo(s) Here 8. Construction date: Estimated ,- Factual ,1888-1940

9. Architect Various

10. Builder Various

11. Approx. property size (in feet) AV Frontage = Depth J nn '

or approx. acreage

12. Date(s) of enclosed photogr&(s) November 1980

X X 13. Condition: Excellent X ~ o o d - F a i r Deteriorated - No longer i n existence -

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land - Scattered buildings - Densely built-up Other: Residential I n d u s t r i a l C o m m e r c i a l

16. Threats t o site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning X Vandalism Public Works project - Other:

17. Is the structure: On its original site? . Moved? Unknown?

18. Related features:

SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events, and persons associated wi th the site.)

The forerunner of the present Coast Highway was a dirt road extending from Main Beach to Aliso Canyon. The first entry into the Laguna coast was via Aliso Canyon and Laguna Canyon; it was natural that a coast route 1 inking these two arteries be developed. The first cottages and houses in the area were on the coast and, of course, the coast road was necessary to get people to and from their place of lodging.

It was not until 1926 that the road was paved and officially made part of the Coast Highway which now runs from the State of Washington to San Diego.

The first buildings to go up along South Coast Highway were board and batten cottages used for dwelling purposes. The earliest houses in Laguna were along the bluffs adjacent to Main Beach and access to these was from the Coast Road. Soon the downtown began to develop as a commercial downtown and Coast Highway was used for commercial purposes as we1 1. South Coast Highway now contains a mix of remnant beach houses (many with commercial .) I storefronts) and commercial buildings including hotels, gas stations, office buildings, apartments and general commercial use buildings. A cross-section of architectural styles from early board and batten to Mediterranean and Provincial Revival are present, making South Coast Highway a veritable sampler of historic architectural styles in

21. Sources (List books, documents, surveys, personal interviews and their dates). Orange Co. Assessor ' s Records Laguna City Directories, 1918-45 South Coast Newspaper Pioneer Days in Laguna, Ramsey

2 h a ~ X i h e m e o f the historic resource: ( i f more than one is '

22. Date form prepared By (name) K a- . . Organization ~ntal Cnalitian Address: 206 W. 4th St.. Ste. 316

checked, number i n order o f importance.]

Architecture 1 Arts & Leisure 7 Econornic/lndustr~al E x p l o r a t i o n / S e t t l e m e n t

Government Military Religion Social/Education

City S a n t _ a 7 i p 92701 Phone: p

In addition, South Coast Highway is an important image-making roadway in the city. It contains many pre-1940 homes and buildings of architectural and historic interest which contribute to the vi 1 1 age character of the city.

STATE HIGHWAY ROUTE- 60 I

U. S. 101 ALT. I 0 I I-

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1. 162 South Coast Highway 1934 (E) This building has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual listing.

2. 214 South Coast Highway 1917 with 1927 remodeling (K)

A two-story brick building with stucco facing. The building has a box plan with flat roof and the minimum of ornamentation. A tiled canopy string course skirts the upper girth of the building.

This building has been a landmark on this corner since the time the artists first started arriving enmass to Laguna. Over the years prior to 1940, the building housed a variety of commerci a1 businesses and cafes.

3. 300-20 and 340 1918 and 1927 (E)

m What was originally a large shingled house at 300-20 was immediately used as a restaurant upon its completion. A large front-facing gable distinguishes the building; out of this gable on either side rise two wide and high shed dormers. The steep pitch of the roof and the casement windows are typical of the early Laguna bui ldings which imparted a village scale and character. The White House Cafe was first located in the older of the two buildings, 300-20 South Coast Highway, and was built by Claude Bronner, proprieter of the restaurant. The restaurant did well from the start and was later expanded by the second owner, Richard Bird, in 1934. At that time a tavern and bar were added so that: the restaurant extended the entire length from 300-40. The White House Cafe now occupies only the later addition to the building and the restaurant and bar have been cons01 idated into one building. Second owner Richard Bird bought the White House Cafe for the then astronomical sum of $86,000. He approached Claude Bronner to sell and, hesitant to do so, Mr. Bronner arbitrarily placed a high price tag on the business. To his shock, Bird was prepared to pay the sum in cash, and that was an offer that Mr. Bronner could not refuse. (See the listing for 758 Manzanita for more information on C 1 aude Bronner. )

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335 4. .3Zf South Coast Highway 1927 (E)

This building has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual 1 isting.

5. 37% South Coast Highway ca. 1930 (K) 4

This is a Tudor Revival influenced commercial building built with dual entry to house two businesses. The central front-f acing gable with half-timbering most distinguishes the building. The original doors and angled showcase windows are still in place below. AS of 1941, this building housed the Pacific Souvenir Shop. Since that time it has always housed a variety of tourist oriented businesses.

6. 400 South Coast Highway 1931 (E)

0 Known as the Heisler Building for its original owner H.G. Heisler, this Provincial Revival influenced building has graced this corner of Laguna since 1931. The building is distinguished by a box plan with mansard roof and steep-pitched gables with a modified turret on the corner. Faced in stucco. and lined with double-hung windows on the second floor, the building contributes greatly to the village quality of downtown Laguna. The building was designed to house two commercial units below and two apartments above. Beginning in 1935, Rason's Drug Store occupied the corner portion of the building where the Jolly Roger is now located. Beginning about this same time, Dr. Conover, an osteopath, established his office here and remained for many years. Howard Heisler, developer of the building, was an important real estate entrepreneur in the early days of Laguna. Along w i t h L.C. McKnight he acquired most of the land which now compromises north Laguna from the Irvine Company and subdivided it in 1906 under the name Laguna Cliffs. This was the first tract in Laguna to have water directly piped to each lot, quite an achievement for its time. This building on South Coast Highway is an important testimony to the memory of an important Laguna pioneer, H.G. Heisler.

7. 424 South Coast Highway 1931 (C)

This is an extension to the Heisler building next door at 400 South Coast Highway. it was designed in a similar style and also provided residential units upstairs and

m commercial space downstairs.


9. 448 South Coast Highwa.y 1934 ( K ) . <

a A two-story commercial building with apartments/offices above. The rectangular plan building features a single gable roof ornamented with brick pilasters on either side of the front facade. The building is sheathed in wood overlap siding. Though not part of the original building, an arcade defined by an arched brick entry now runs through the center of the building.

In the early 40's Bird's Studio Shops (domestic and imported gifts) attracted many tourists. Also located fn the lower portion o f the building in the 40's was the Pepper Tree Cafe owned by Everett Tawney.

10. 460 South Coast Highway 1930 (K)

0 A modified Mission Revival commercial building characterized by a box plan, flat roof and stucco finishing. Three large arches define the front facade and are separated by pilasters. The main entry is recessed beneath the center arch.

From the late 30's through the 40's the Southern Counties Gas Company was located here.

11. 470-72 South Coast Highway 1928 (K) This was a small board and batten cottage originally which was adapted to commercial use early on. The building has been aesthetically manipulated over the years, but still retains the majority of its original quality. The side-facing gables and board and batten siding contribute to the quality of its character. A variety of shops have been located here including artist Marius Smith's studio (as o f 1932), The Gift Mart (as of 1935), Kato Art Shop (as of 1941), and Shop of the Seven Seas (as of 1941).

12. 509 South Coast Highway 1902 (K) A blufftop board and batten house with ocean orientation. The house has a rectangular plan and single gabled roof. A smaller lean-to addition on the oceanfront side may originally have been an open porch, The south side of the house has been refaced in overlap siding and stucco has been applied on the gable faces. Despite these changes the house still retains its original format and scale. This is one of three of the oldest remaining cottages from the first settlement above the main beach.

13. 513 South Coast Highway 1902 (C) On the street side is located a board and batten cottage with a single gabled roof. On the ocean side in another board and batten cottage, but this one cascades down the bluff and has a pyramidal roof. These are one of three of the oldest remaining cottages from the first settlement above Main Beach.

14. 535 South Coast Highway 1937 (C) A Moderne style building which originally housed the Vista Apartments. The building is comprised of two stories built into the side of a sloping lot. The flat roof, rectangular plan and stucco siding are typical of the period. Entry at the lower level is recessed and defined by rounded corners. The remaining panes of glass-brick on the upper level are also typical of the style.

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15. 541 south Coast Highway 1887 (K)

0 From the oceanside one can see a box plan house with a single gabled roof and wide shed dormer with casement windows. A full porch is recessed below the gable overhang which is supported by wood posts. A saw-tooth embellishment adorns the upper portion of the porch. The house appears to be in nearly original condition and is one of just a handful of homes in Laguna which remain from before 1900. What was a board and batten cottage was built by Frank D. Collins, a rancher from Villa Park, as his summer house. The cottage had the first cement lined cistern for catching rain water. Beginning in the early 30's artist Nell Coover, known for his etchings, had this as his studio home. More than 20 years later the house was taken by Majorie Adams Darli-ng and her husband William as their studio home. Ms. Darling still occupies the house. Ms. Darling has been a distinguished artist all her life. She is a portrait artist who began exhibiting in the first Festival of Arts in 1932 and holds the title of being the longest continuous exhibitor. William Darling began as a portrait artist but proceeded to develop a 30-year career as a movie set painter. He won three Academy Awards for his sets: Calvalcade (1932-33), Song of Bernadette (1943), and Anna and the King of Siam (1945). In addition, he designed sets for Shirley Temple, Sonja Henie, and Will Rogers motion pictures. In 1952 he was presented a special award by the Motion Picture Academy honoring his excellent work, an award only bestowed twice in the history of the movie industry.

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0 A b l u f f t o p house w i t h ocean o r i en ta t i on dist inguished by a box plan w i t h shallow p i tched roo f and corner t u r r e t . The shingled house has a f u l l length veranda supported by ornamental posts. The c i r c u l a r t u r r e t r i s e s above the main r oo f l i n e and i s crowned w i t h a conical roof .

The house was designed by l oca l a r ch i t ec t Thomas Harper f o r Mr . and Mrs. Herman Eberle. Mr . Eberle was an inventor.

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17. 619 Sleepy Hollow . Ca. 1925 (estimate) (E)

A shingled beach house on the blufftop with ocean orientation. The house has a modified box plan with a hipped roof accented with tiled ridges. Large multi-paned casement windows are used throughout. Because of the present restaurant use, a large patio dining area has been added on the ocean side which largely obscures the main house. What is visible of the house is still largely intact. What is now the Beach House Inn restaurant was originally the home of western comedian and actor Slim Summerville. The American character actor, known as the gagman for Mack Sennett, was born George Summerville in 1892. While he played in dozens of movies, he claimed Laguna as his primary home. Some of his most notable film credits include The Beloved Rogue (19271, All Quiet on the Western Front (1930), The Front Page (1931), White Fang (1936) and Tobacco Road (1941).

18. 650 South Coast Highway 1914 (K) A shingled beach house built into a sloping lot. The house has a single gable roof with an elongated slope on the south side. Tongue and groove siding i s present on the first level. During the 40 's this served as the home and pottery studio for Claude and Jane Weddle who produced Weddleware Ceramics. This is one of several potter studios which were located in the 600 blocks of South Coast Highway and Sleepy Hollow Lane during the war years.

19. 656 South Coast Highway ca. 1925 (estimate) ( K )

A la rge two-story clapboard house b u i l t h igh on a s loping l o t . The house has a s ingled gable roo f w i t h the f r o n t gable face having a continuous band of windows on a the second level . The en t ry i s a t f r o n t center beneath a porch overhang and i s flanked by a large multi-paned window on e i t he r side. A smaller s ing le gabled bu i ld ing used as a boutique i s down on the s t r ee t level .


A remnant board and batten cottage b u i l t h igh on a steep l o t w i t h a commercial (1944) add i t ion below a t the s t r ee t level . The house i s t yp i ca l o f the Laguna board and bat ten cottages w i t h i t s gabled roo f and f r o n t entry.

21. 664 South Coast Highway 1931 (K) The upper portion of the lot contains a multi-gabled board and batten cottage with large casement windows. The lower street level portion of the lot contains a large shingled house (now in commercial use) with two ample front-facing gables. By 1945 the Sleepy Hollow Pottery was established here. Potters included Oliver Hill, Thomas Hart, and Eva Henderson.

22. 703 South Coast Highway 1024 (C) A small shingled building which was probably a cottage when first constructed. The building has a rectangular plan, single gabled roof, and central entry with bay windows on either side. Though the original use is unknown, it is known that the building served as the Sheppard Real Estate office by 1945 and Mary C. Sheppard was the proprieter.

This is a one-story shingled storefront with a stuccoed house in the rear. The small scale, flat roof and staggered-butt shingles contribute to the vi 11 age qua1 ity establ ished along South Coast Highway.

I 24. 779 South Coast Highway 1917 (C) A two-story board and batten house built on a sloping lot. The house has a simple box plan with a shallow pitched gabled roof. It appears that the lot was excavated e to accommodate the lower portion of the building. By 1940 Gladys Gurley had established her real estate office here.

25. 797 South Coast Highway 1921 (C) ~ M o ~ p M a + 7 3 U W ) M 3 f I-

A board and batten cottage with box plan and multi-gabled roofline. The house sits on an elevated lot and faces Coast Highway but has an ocean view to the rear.


A two-story board and batten cottage with a commercial remodel at the street level. The original portions of the house are most visible at the second level where a full porch supported by a wide gable overhang is present.

27. 845 South Coast Highway 1915 (K) A large shingled house with a single-gabled roof and a box plan. The house is located on the blufftop and has an ocean orientation. Casement windows are used throughout. A tapered chimney rises up the south face. The house has strong Craftsman influences and retains most of its original integrity.

This beach cottage was built by the Lantzfs who lived in L.A. This and the cottages at 881 South Coast Highway and 154 Thalia were a11 built by related family members. Most notable of these is the house at 154 Thalia which served as the studio home of artist William Swift Daniell. See the following listing.

28. 154 Thalia 1915 (K)

a An oceanfront cottage with a rectangular plan and single-gabled roof with a tiled ridgeline. The cottage incorporates an ocean orientation and is built into the bluff face. Windows form a continuous band around the frontmost portions.

Artist William Swift Daniel1 originally built this as his studio home. He is credited with being one of the early artists in Laguna and the one to have the first one-man exhibition here. He was known for his watercolor landscapes. In Los Angeles where he located his primary home, he ran ,an art gallery beginning in 1911 to sell Southern California paintings.


A small board and batten cottage with rectangular plan and single-gabled roof located on the oceanfront portion of the lot. Two chimneys rise out of the center while casement windows are used throughout. The frontmost portion of the house on the ocean side is a later addition.

0 This was built as a beach cottage by Dorothy Lantz whose parents occupied the beach house next door at 845 South Coast Highway.

30. 901-13 South Coast Hiqhwav 1936 ( E l - - . . This building has been determined eligible for the National Register. See individual listing.

31. 947 South Coast Highway 1924 (K) A two-story board and batten house with multi-gabled roof and box plan. This was formerly the studio home of Elise Blandamar, an artist who came here from L.A. in 1932 and was known for her pottery work called Yarkely Pottery.


a A small beach cottage with box plan and single-gabled roof. While nothing is known about the origins o f this house, it is typical of those which were loosely strung out along South Coast Highway during the 20's for use as beach cottages.

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33. 967 South Coast Highway 1924 (C) A small clapboard cottage with multi-gabled roofline. Like the house next door at 961, this is also typical of the many small cottages which once dotted South Coast Highway in the days before it was a major thoroughfare.

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35. 1008 South Coast Highway 1926 (K) A Mediterranean Revival building on a corner lot with a distinguished corner entry o f arches. While the building has a predominantly flat roof the front wing has a slight three angled pitch with a large arched window on the front face and a hooded entry with arched openings.

0 , In 1935 the MacBeth Galleries and Antiques was here; in the early 40's Terrace Pottery Company was here.

36. 1009 South Coast Hiqhway 1938-39 (E) This building has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual listing.

37. 1133 South Coast Highway 1937 (K) This is a Provincial Revival building built with the scale and format of a house. The building is distinguished by steep-pitched counter facing gables with the front gable being the larger of the two. This gable features half-timbering and a bay window while t he entry is to the side. .

m Previous enterprises at this location are Austin Trumbell Realtor (as of 1937), '

Manfred De Ahna, architect (as of 1940), Sea Side Studio (as of 1941).

38. 1143 South Coast Highway While too new to be considered by historic criteria, this building is very much an architectural part of this block. The Tudor Revival influences and steep-pitched roof in combination with the recessed entry make this a component part of the village character buildings in this block.


A one-story brick building with a Hobbit quality. The box planned building is topped with a single gable roof sheathed in wood shingles. A smaller gabled projection with glass walls is on one side while the Cotswold door entry with masonry embellishment is on the other side. This building was built for artist Ida Randall Bolles by the contracting firm of Ropp & Mackey. Originally called Sea Dreams Studio, the building had an apartment in the rear and studio and commercial space in the front. Ms. Bolles was a landscape and marine painter who is 1 isted in the 1942 Artist Register in the South Coast news. Beginning in 1935 realtor Les Chatham had his off ice here.


This building has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual 1 isting.

41. 1212 South Coast Highway (date unknown on buildings ) (E) The Pottery Shack consists of a cluster of remnant board and batten beach cottages. The business is located on a large corner lot that stretches from Coast Highway to Glenneyre. The buildings make an "LN formation on the property with the corner space being utilized for outdoor displays. The buildings are typical cottages with multi-gabled roofs facing a variety of directions. Prior to the establ ishment of. the Pottery Shack, the Yum-Yum Tea Room was located here. In 1936 the Pottery Shack was estdbl ished here. Two brothers, Roy and Van Childs and their wives, founded the Pottery Shack with $80 worth of mixing bowls, pots and vases to put on second-hand shelves and third-hand tables. Business was good during the first years in the summer and after the war. The Pottery Shack rapidly expanded into an internationally famous tourist attraction. This is one of several large pottery factories that flourished during the war years in Laguna. This is the only one which remains and as such is an important Laguna landmark.

42. 1257-59 South Coast Highway 1928 (K)

This i s a board and batten beach house recessed below street grade with a shingled storefront added at the street level. The storefront features large multi-paned picture windows and staggered butt shingles for ornamentation. This is typical o f the way in which many of the early homes along South Coast Highway were adapted to commercial use. Residential quarters are still located i n the rear and the front is used for commercial purposes. In 1941 the Leqgett Drug Store was located here.

43. 1264 South Coast Highway 1930 (K) A Mediterranean Revival building with one story in the front and a second story on the rear portion. The second story has a side-facing gable with tiled roof while the front story has a front-facing gable with a tiled hood which forms the entry overhang. This building originally housed various galleries and antique stores. Among these were the Gilmore Galleries (as of 1932) and the Treasure Chest (as of 1940). Mary Maxwell ran the Treasure Chest in which she sold antique jewelry which was bought by those from all over the region.

44. 1273 South Coast Highway (1928-house / 1939 storefront) (K) This is a beach house recessed below street grade with a stucco storefront. The house in rear has a multi-gabled roofline while the storefront has a single-gabled parapet. In 1941 the Trap Door Dining Room was established here.


0 This building has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual 1 isting.


47. 1335 South Coast Highway ca. 1939 (estimate) (C) A simplified Moderne building with a box plan and flat roof. The front facade consists o f three bays with the center one recessed. Each is delineated by a fluted pilaster. The building was built to accommodate apartments and was originally known as the Mitchell Apartments.

48. 168 Mountain 1932 (K)

a A small single room wood frame cotage with a single-gable roof. A full porch is located beneath the gable overhang and is supported by wood posts with diagonal braces. This building was reputedly one of the Olympic cottages brought to Laguna following the 1932 Olympics. When the Olympics ended the cottages were put up for sale at a low price. The Laguna Heights Land Company of Los Angeles bought them along with land in upper Bluebird Canyon. The cottages were moved here from Los Angeles with the majority going to Bluebird Canyon. The Coast Inn across the street from this address incorporated some of the cottages. The one which remains here at 168 Mountain is the most unaltered of the cottages which remain.


50. 1464 South Coast Highway ca. 1925 (E) This building has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual listing.

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0 This is a cluster of one-story attached shops arranged in a "U" plan. The bui ldings have hipped roofs with wide eaves which emphasize the Hobbi t appearance. Tiled ridges and gabled dormers also adorn the roof. A strong Cotswold flavor is imparted through the use of Cotswold doors, ornamental brick foundations, painted roof shakes and a courtyard garden. The Art Center, as this is known, started as a beach shack. In 1937 it was rented by Dorothy Ramsey for $15 per month for use as her studio where she produced Mexican wood carvings. By 1938, others became interested in the location and more shops were built by her father Merle Ramsey, local building contractor. The shops were built to house artist studios and galleries, the idea being that artists would have both a place to work and a place to exhibit their work for sale to the public. One of the longest standing businesses at this location is Warren Imports. They have been located at this address since 1937 and are now considered one of the finest import businesses in the region.

52. 1500 South Coast Highway ca. 1930 (estimate) (K)

rn A small Mediterranean Revival building which occupies a corner lot. The building has a gabled roof and stucco finishing on the faces. The entry is recessed through an arched opening. The original use of this building is unknown, but for the last 25 years the building has served as a gift shop, For many of those years it was called The Sandbox and was a children's clothing store. The size of the building is so small i t makes it a novelty, and thus an important contributor to the village qua1 ity of South Coast Highway.

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53. 1524 South Coast Highway 1934 (C) This is a small shingled cottage with gabled roof and large picture windows in front. The bui ldinq was built for Dr. Theodore Stover and originally housed a business cal led .Stover & Martel Picture Framing. Whi 1e the business was in front, living quarters were probably in the rear.

54. 1751 South Coast Highway ca. 1940 (estimate) (K) This is a Tudor Revival storefront attached to a beach house which is in the rear and below the street level. Half-timbering distinguishes the gable while large multi-paned windows are below.


6 A two-story building with Monterey Revival influence. A rectangular plan and tiled gable roof are enhanced by a second-story balcony with wood balustrade which wraps around the north and west portion of the building. Sup~orting posts are ornamented with ornate carved brackets. Exposed beams and ornamental rafter tails further add embell ishment. Windows and mu1 ti-paned French doors are a1 1 framed in rough hewn wood.

This building was formerly located downtown on Broadway, but was moved in the mid- 70's to accommodate a parking lot expansion by Laguna Federal Savings. It was one of two buildings moved at the time; the other is now located at 1166 Glenneyre. When located downtown, the building was called Casa De Mandigo and served as apartments. At this location it has a combined commercial and apartment use.


m This is an eclectic storefront addition to a house in the rear. This unique storefront looks as though it were from the Black Forest in Germany. It features a steep-pitched gable roof which slopes on one side to also forms the roof for the side portion of the building. Half-timbering, the small multi-paned window in the gable, and the rough hewn door a1 1 lend a fairy tale qua1 ity.

This building was built and designed by Carl Able while he and his family occupied the house in the rear. He was a woodworker from Scandinavia and responsible for the design and building of some very unusual Laguna homes. In addition to the Ables, in 1941 there was also the Whazit & Whinkey Shop and The Haunted Book Shop.

57. 1793/79 South Coast Highway ca. 1926 (E)

a A Mediterranean Revival gas station and accompanying car repair building. The gas station is a gabled box with a cut-out below the gable to form the pump kiosk. The repair building in the rear is a long linear building with a tiled gable roof. The gas station. is the oldest remaining gas station in Laguna and is an important reminder of the rise of the auto industry in the 20's. Originally known as El Arco Garage, the buildings were built by Ed Seeman who lived around the corner on Glenneyre. Mr. Seeman owned and operated the El Arco Garage until his death in recent years. In addition to pumping gas when it first opened, the El Arco Garage sold water; those in South Laguna came here for their water rather than having to go all the way up Laguna Canyon.

58. 1826 South Coast Highway 1927 (K) A Mediterranean Revival commercial building with two stories, a flat roof and stucco finishing. The building is embellished with a tile hood at the first and second story. Recessed double-hung windows run the length of the second story.

P 59. 1873 South Coast Highway 1930 (C)

A board and batten bungalow cottage recessed considerably below street grade. The house has an "L" plan, gabled roof and angled hay window on the street side.

60. 1920 South Coast Highway 1932 (C) A two-story commercial building with Mediterranean Revival influence. The building features a rectangular plan and a flat roof with a tile hood in front. This building was bui It by Albert Harris, a bakery owner on Forest Avenue who bui 1 t this as an investment. Coast Upholstering, now located in Laguna Canyon, started here. In 1941 the Dorothy Kindell Pottery studio was here.

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I 61. 1936 South Coast Highway 1930 (C)

a A narrow rectangular plan Period Revival building. The single-gable roof has an elongated slope on the south side. A large multi-pane window and ornamental brick chimney and retaining wall adorn the front facade. Dick Knox Ceramics Productions was located here beginning in the early 40's.

62. 1956 South Coast Highway . ca. 1930 (C)

' w What was a multi-gabled house with overlap siding has been considerably altered to provide commercial storefronts at the street level. This was originally a home and grocery store known as the Andrew "Pat" Ryan Grocery. Mr. Ryan who 1 ived in the rear was a W.W. I veteran who served as the unofficial lifeguard in this part of town. His bad legs forced him to swim every day to aid in their rehabilitation; it was not uncommon for him to see a distressed swimmer and aid with the rescue.

63. 2007 South Coast Highway 1922 w/ ca. 1930 remodeling (E)

m An eclectic Tudor Revival influenced building with two stories, a rectangular plan and clipped gable roof. The building's most distinguishing characteristic is the extensive half -timbering throughout. An ornamental brick foundation wall also adds embellishment. The building was originally built by artist and councilman William Riddle as his art studio and home. At that time the building was known as the Riddle studio. Riddle later built the Hotel Del Camino at 1289 South Coast Highway and relocated there. Riddle was a noted landscape and marine painter during the 20's and 30's.

64. 2079 South Coast Highway 1920 ( E )

a A two-story shingled beach house with Craftsman influences. The house is recessed below street grade and incorporates an ocean orientation. The roof is gabled on both the smaller second story and on the first story. Multi-paned windows are used throughout the ground story. This simple shingled bungalow served as the studio home of artist Carl Yens. Yens was from Germany and came to Laguna to paint as part of the California Impressionist School. He became one of the key artists in Laguna in the 20's. His neice who still lives here reports that the Yens acquired the house through the trade of one painting and $1,000. He spent a good portion of his life broke and was known to trade paintings at the grocer and bakery for his daily food.

65. 2091 South Coast Highway 1922 ( C )

A board and bat ten bungalow co t tage w i t h a box p l a n and gabled roo f . The roof i s sheathed i n wood shakes. En t r y i s a t f r o n t center beneath a gabled po r t i co . A l a r g e th ree-par t window i s on the south s ide o f t h e entry .

66. 2094 South Coast Highway 1933 ( K )

A Mediterranean Revival commercial b u i l d i n g w i t h a box plan, f l a t r o o f and stucco s id ing . The f r o n t facade i s d i s t i ngu i shed by a t i l e hood and t h r e e l a r g e arched windows, t h e center o f which has a double s ta i rway leading t o the entry .

Th is was b u i l t t o house t h e O.J. La faye t te Co., manufacturers of glass.

67. 2160 South Coast Highway ca. 1930 (estimate) (E)

0 From the street level one sees a large stark stucco facade with elongated rectangular windows with an arched embellishment. The house is built into the slope of the lot and includes a garage at the street level. A small board and batten studio is in the rear. Though this house has been remodeled, it is important for having been the studio home of artist Ruth Peabody. Ms. Peabody was the daughter of artist Elanor Colburn with whom she moved to Laguna in 1923. She resided in an apartment in her mother's studio home and later married a surveyor. Peabody studied at the Chicago Art Institute and began her career as a sculptor. Over the years she executed several important fountains and memorial plaques including the portrait medallion of Anna Hills at the Laguna Art Museum. She worked in representational oil painting and later became involved in more abstract work. Ms. Peabody conducted art education classes beginning in 1942 for adults through the Laguna Beach High School.

P A G E 49 O F 5 2

68. 2260 South Coast Highway 1927 (E) A large multi-gabled bungalow with an angled orientation. Though the ,house is now covered in asbestos shingles, a large river stone chimney be1 ies what must have been strong Craftsman infTuences. The house has an architectural dynamism derived from the use of varied angles and several bay windows. This is another of the important Laguna artist studio homes. This one was owned by Thomas Hunt and wife Blanch. Hunt ranks among the key 'artists of the 20's in Laguna. Hunt spent most of his life in Cleveland, Ohio where he made a living building and selling apartment buildings. He studied painting in his later years and moved to Laguna in 1924 and subsequently built this as his studio home. He continued to be involved in real estate in San Bernardino, but increasingly did more painting. He was instrumental in the development of the Laguna Art Association where he served many times as the chairman of the hanging committee. He was financially and personally generous in helping young artists.

69. 2280 South Coast Highway 1938 (C) A small shingled bungalow cottage with a gabled roof and various multi-paned windows. The house i s set back on a high lot and i.s reached by a winding driveway. It now goes'by the name Sycamore Estate.

70. 2475 South Coast Highway 1906 (E) This house has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual listing.

71. 2529 South Coast Highway 1925 (E) This house has been designated eligible for the National Register. See individual listing.


A large two-story house with a gabled roof and angled orientation. Casement windows are used throughout. Just adjacent is a small one-story, single-room cottage; this oriqinally served as a real estate office. The house is now used as apartments. Long-time Laguna realtor and property investor Les Chatham lived and had his first real estate office here. The Chatham family owned this building until the 50's when it was sold. Les Chatham is still actively involved in civic affairs in Laguna, particularly with the American Legion. chatham and h i s f a t h e r had

c o - r e s p o n s i b i l i t y h a s head r e a l t o r s f o r t h e s a l e o f a l l l o t s i n South Laguna and Three Arch Ray.

73. 2975 South Coast Highway 1929 (K) A two-story Mediterranean Revival building constructed to house two stores on the ground level and two apartments above. The building has a tiled gable roof and a tile hood at the first story. A small attached cupola is a distinguishing feature.

NATIONAL REGISTERS

State of Gal-forn~a - The Resources Agency ser. N ~ , 30-2651-1.?--1a DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 1 E;i:T y;;rR-, 9y:c$ SHL - Loc -

HlSTClRlC RESOURCES INVENTORY

l DENTlFlCATlON I. Common name: South Coast Theatre

2. Historic name: New Lynn Theatre

3. Street or rural address: 162 South Coast Hiqhway

City Laquna Beach zip 92651 County Orange

4. Parcel number:

5. Present Owner: Address:

City Zip Ownership is: Public Private x x 6. Present Use: Novie Theater/Retai 1 Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 78. Arcbiteaural style: Mediterranean Revi vaf fb. Briefly describe the present pbysica~ description of the site or structure and describe any major alterations from its

original condition:

This is a Mediterranean Revival influenced theatre building with retai 1 commercial spaces at the street level. The building incorporates an unusual juxtaposition of brick and stucco interfacing at various angles and elevations.

The building includes two stories arranged in a "U" pattern around an open entry foyer. Two retail spaces are located on either side of the foyer opening, while the ) r e n a i n d e r o f t h e b u i 1 d i n g i s d e v o t e d t o f h e m o v i e t h e a t r e .

Brick work is used predominantly along the front faces and is complemented by an open balcony along the inner portion o f the "Uf' and a tile hood which spans the upper part of the second story. A large tower rises above the marque and is crowned by a pyramidal roof. French door openings and wrought iron balcony balustrades further provide Mediterranean influence.

Based on a 1940 photograph of the building, it appears to retain most of its original architectural integrity. The building is in excel lent, we1 1-maintained condition.

8. Construction date: Estimated FactuJ ,-,

9. W i t e c t j a m e m

10. Builder Sam S m j t h

I f . Approx. propert$ dm (in fest) Frontage .-, O e p t h l n n l or approx. acreage

12. Date(s1 of enclosed photograph(s) November 1980

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d - Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence -

14. Alterations:

1 5. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary). Open land - Scattered buildings - Densely built-up Residential - I ndustrial C o m m e r c i a l X Other:

1 6. Threats to site: None known X ~ r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandalism

Public Works project - Other:

1 7. Is the structure: On its original site? .A Moved? Unknown?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly sate historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events. and persons associated with the site.)

What i s now known as the South Coast Theatre was b u i l t i n 1934 and ca l led the New Lynn Theatre. It i s the second theat re (and Laguna's on ly movie theat re ever) on the s i t e . The o r i g i na l theat re bu i ld ing which was also b u i l t by the Fred Aufdenkamp fami l y i n 1915 was moved t o Ocean Avenue f o r i n t e r im use u n t i l the present bu i l d i ng was complete.

The Aufdenkamps came t o Laguna i n 1914 and f i r s t operated a Box B a l l and Ten Pinnet bowling a1 l e y business. Shor t ly thereafter they branched out i n t o the movie business and qu ick ly b u i l t up what became a very p o p ~ ~ l a r and p r o f i t a b l e business. Fred Aufdenkamp pioneered the business but qu ick ly brought i n h i s business minded son Lynn t o ass is t w i th the operations. Hence the o r i g i n a l name the New Lynn Theatre.

The theat re opened i n 1935 wi th a ceremonial extravaganza attended by a throng o f loca ls i n add i t ion t o several movie stars. The f i r s t movie shown was "Ginger" s t a r r i n g " l i t t l e Jane Withers." A r t i s t Edgar Payne painted large p i c t o r i a l murals, port ions o f which s t i l l adorn the i n t e r i o r .

Continued - see attached sheet

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: (If more than one is checked. number in order o f importanus.) Architecture 1 Arts & Leisure 2 Economic/lndustrial Exp lo ra t ion /Sen lement Government Military Religion Sodai/Educatim

21. Sources (List books, doaunant3. suweys, personal interviews and their dates).

Lynn Aufdenkamp, o r i g i n a l owner South Coast Newspaper Souvenir Program, 1935

2 2 Date form prepared I981 BY (name) Kathleen Les orwitation Environmental Coal i t ion Address: 206 W. 4th St. . Ste. 316 City Santa Ana zip 92701 Phone: (714) 836-4314

Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks) :

South Coast Theatre - Continuat ion

) The South Coast Theatre b u i l d i n g has shown f i n e movies cont inuously s ince the day i t LI

opened. It i s an important c u l G r a l f o c a l p o i n t o f Laguna.

The b u i l d i n g i t s e l f i s important s t y l i s t i c a l l y as one o f t he landmark Mediterranean Revival bu i l d ings i n the c i t y . It was the f i r s t concrete and s t e e l b u i l d i n g ever constructed i n Laguna. The h igh concrete foundation r e s t s on many p i l i n g s d r i ven down t o bedrock by a huge steem p i l e d r i ve r . Dist inguished thea t re a r c h i t e c t James Conway o f Bever ly H i l l s designed the b u i l d i n g and the l o c a l con t rac t i ng f i r m o f Smith Construct ion d i d the const ruc t ion work.

State of Californra - The Resources Agency Ser. No. 313-2651--10-4b DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HABS- HAER NR 3 SHL - Loc -

UTM: A 437180/3712330 HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY C D

IDENTIFICATION 1. Common name: Isch Building

2. Historic name: Same

3. Street or rural address: j(s0uth Coast Highway

City Laguna Beach Zip 92651 county Orange

4. Parcel number:


Citv zip Ownership is: Public Private x x 6. Present Use: C0mmerc i a 1 Original use: Same ,

DESCRIPTION 7a. Ardritectural nyte: Spanish Mediterranean Revival 7b. Briefly describe the presentphysicai dbscriprion of the site or structure and describe any maior alterations from i ts

original condition:

This is a one-story Mediterranean Revival building with strong Spanish influence. The building has a long l inear format distinguished by a stucco face and adobe ti led gable roof. A pyramidal roof on the south end and a shed roof on the north end anchor the building on either side while the central portion is formed by a series of arches providing a full length entry arcade. These arches are low and wide with simplified capital embellishments.

The building is in excellent condition, retains most of its original architectural appearance and is in a well-maintained state of repair.

I 8. Construction date: Estimated -, Factual 1927

I 3. *di,, Aubrey St. Clair

10. Builder Unknown

11. Appmx. property size (in feet) Frontage ,- Depth ' or approx. acre*

12. Daie(s1 of enclosed photogtsplr (s) May 1981

13, Condition: Excellent XGOO~ - F a i r Deteriorated - No longer in existence - Window modifications on nnrth ~ n d 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land - Scattered buildings - Densely built-up

Residential I n d u s t r i a l C o m m e r c i a l X Other: B ~ a r h

16. Threats to site: None k n o w n L ~ r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism Public Works project - Other:

17. I s the structure: On its original s i t e 7 1 Moved? Unknown?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events, and penons associated with the site-)

The Isch Building was built by Laguna pioneer Nick Isch. Mr. Isch was one of the Laguna pioneers of the 1880's and co-owned one of the first livery stables in town known as the Isch and Warling Palace Stable. Isch also served as postmaster and town merchant in the early days. His original store, which also formed the post office, was formerly located on the site of the present Jolly Roger Restaurant.

Isch parlayed the proceeds from his earlier businesses into the construction of this Spanish Mediterranean Revival commercial bui lding. Aubrey St. Cl air served as the architect; Mr. St. Clair was a local architect prominent in the late 20's and through the 40's who designed many landmark public and commercial buildings in the Mediterranean Revival style. (The Fire Department, Water District and City Hall buildings are all of his design.)

The Isch Building has housed various shops and stores over the years. Since its .) construction, it has been a landmark building in downtown Laguna. Until the present decade, the building was still ownedwithin the Isch family.

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: (If more than one is checked, number in order of importance.) Architecture 1 Arts & Leisure Economic/lndustriai ~ ~ x p i o r a t i o n ~ ~ e t t l m e n t Government Military Religion SodalEducaion

21. Sources (List books. doarmants, surveys. personal interviews and their dates).

Catherine Petty, N. Isch's daughter Pioneer Days in Laguna, Ramsey

k I & V --

(114) 83% Phone:

- Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets. roads. and prominent landmarks) :

A NORTH

Stare of Caiifornia - The Resources Agency s,,, N*, f 0--2h51--1?-8~ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HAES- HAER- NR 3 SHL - Lot-

UTM: A 1[1?7479/3zL2523C 8 HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY C D

) iDENTlFlCAilON 1. Common name: Hotel Laguna


3. Street or rural address: 425 south Coast Highway

City Laguna Beach Zip 92651 hunw Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Ownenhip is: Pubfic Private x X

8. Present use: Hotel and Retai 1 Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Mission Revival 7b. Briefly describe the present physicaI description of the site or mucture and describe any major alterations from itr

original condition: The Hotel taguna was built in 1930 in the Mission Revival style. It i s a large three-story building with an "L" plan, a boxy format and a flat roof. The building i s located on South Coast Highway on the front side and the rear portion is on the oceanfront.

Though the "Lu configuration is not visible fromthe street, the inner apex of the "L" forms an

a open courtyard with fountains and gardens. The building itself is simple and relatively unadorned except for the Mission style parapets and Mission style bell tower on the roof. Though the tower has no bells, it is a distinctive portion of the building which incorporates angled corners and arched openings. Fenestration includes paired groupings of slightly recessed windows. The ocean side of the building has full length windows and an open patio deck for dining and sun bathing. The main entry is off Coast Highway and is marked by an overhead canopy.

The Hotel taguna is among the largest of the pre-1940 buildings in the city. It is located on a prominent corner downtown and serves as a landmark that can be seen from many vantage points throughout the city. The building is in good condition and is well maintained and actively used. Its primary function is as a hotel, but the ground level also incorporates some retail

_ s h o ~ s and dininq facilities. a1 . a. Construction date:

Esimated Factual 1930

9. Architect UtIkIlown

10. Builder Unknown

1 1. ~pprox. property size (in fa) Frontage a n Depth392 or approx. acreaga

12. Oate(s) of enclosed photograph(s) November 1980

X X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d . Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence - 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land S c a t t e r e d buildings - Densely built-up

Residential - Industrial C o m m e r c i a l X Other: Beach w

X 16. Threats to site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism Public Works project - Other:

17. Is the structure: On its original site? X Moved? ~ n k n o w h ?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates. events. and persons associated with the site.)

This i s the second ho te l b u i l d i n g on t h i s s i t e ; t he f i r s t was b u i l t i n the 1880's and was a wood frame b u i l d i n g w i t h a wide veranda. It was razed i n 1928 t o accommodate the const ruc t ion o f t h e present Hote l Laguna. For an e n t i r e century a h o t e l has been located on t h i s spot and a c t i v e l y serv ing seaside v i s i t o r s .

When the present ho te l b u i l d i n g f i r s t opened, i t un fo r tuna te l y coinc ided w i t h the onset o f the Depression. A year and a h a l f a f t e r i t opened, i t was a badly l o s i n g p ropos i t i on u n t i l L loyd and Gerta Sei l s e t bought i t and resur rec ted the business. They compiled an album of.Laguna scenes and promoted t h e h o t e l t o motion p i c t u r e companies. The p r i c e o f lodging was so low compared t o other f i l m l oca t ions and t h e Laguna t e r r a i n was so var ied and adaptable t o movie making, t h a t the f i l m makers a r r i v e d i n droves and the h o t e l was i n the black again i n no time, and has remained t h a t way.

Many stars, c e l e b r i t i e s , and other luminar ies have stayed a t the hote l . Among them are L i l l y Pons, John Barrymore, Rosa1 i n d Russel 1, Joan Fontaine, E r r o l Flynn, James Roosevelt and Charles Lindberg.

m Continued - see attached sheet.

20. Main theme of the historic resource: (If more than one is checked. number in order of importance.) Architecture , -& Leirun Economic/lndustrial LExplorat ionfSett lement Government Military

Religion Social/Education

21. Sources (List books, documents. nrrvays. personal interviews. and their dates).

Orange Co. Assessor's Records South Coast News - Date l ine E d i t i o n L loyd Sei l s e t , previous owner

22. Date form prepared May 198' By (name) - . K i - - -

D nthleen Les

Orgnization Environmental Coal i t i o n Addrest: 206 W. 4 th St., Ste.316 City - Phone: (/14) 636

Santa Ana -. --- np 92701- -4.11 4

I Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks): I

C NORTH

Hotel Laguna - Continuation Staying at the hotel in the early days was more than just a place to sleep. Steak broils, teas, moonlight rides on horseback to the Top of the World and trips to the Hol lywood Bowl were a1 1 common offer iqgs.

The Hotel Laguna has been a vital economic force in the growth of Laguna Beach as a seaside resort.

Architecturally and historically, this is Laguna's singlemost outstanding landmark building. If any building says "Laguna", it is certainly the Hotel Laguna.

IDENTIFICATION

1

1. Common name: 901-13 South Coast Highway

State of Caiifornia - The Resources Aqency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

HISTORtC RESOURCES INVENTORY


ser. N ~ . 30-2651-10-30d HABS-HAER N R 3 S t i L L o c - UTM: A & 7 7 7 8 2 / 3 7 m

C D

3. Street or rural address: 901-13 South Coast Highway

City Laguna Beach t ip 92651 County Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Ownership is: Public Private X X

6. Present Use: C~lIll?ler'ci a1 Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Normandy Revi va? . 7b. Briefly describe the present physicdl d@scriptjon of the site or structure and deccrib any major alterations from its

original condition:

This i s a Normandy Revival influenced commercial building built in 1936. The building is two stories and incorporates a rectangular plan with a multi-faceted roofline. The major portion of the roof is gabled while the corner portion is topped with a conical roof implying a turret. Smaller gabled and shed dormers are scattered across the roof line. The lower portion of the building is comprised almost entirely of showcase windows whi le the upper portion features half-t irnbering to emphasize the Provincial and Normandy influence. The main entry is at the corner.

The building is in excellent, well-maintained condition.

8. Construction date: 1936 Estimated .- Factual -

9. Architect Unknown

10. Builder Unknown

1 1. Approx. property s i t e (in feat), Frontage 100 ' Depth gc or approx. aCf~eCla

1 2 Datets) of enclosed pt\otagraCbT(s) November 1980

13. Condition: Excellent X G O ~ ~ - Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence ~- 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land S c a t t e r e d buildings D e n s e l y built-up

Residential I n d u s t r i a l C o m m e r c i a l X Other:

m 16. Threats to site: None known X ~ r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism


17. Is the structure: On its original site? .L Moved? Unknown ?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events. and persons associated with the site.)

I n add i t i on t o being an a r c h i t e c t u r a l landmark along South Coast Highway, t h i s b u i l d i n g has h i s t o r i c a l importance f o r h a v i n g been the s tud io f o r n a t i o n a l l y known photographer W-il l iam Mortensen. Beginning i n 1938, Mortensen located h i s s tud io and School o f Photography here and remained u n t i 1 1955.

Mortensen i s known n a t i o n a l l y f o r h i s p i c t o r i a l s t y l e photographs. He f i r s t came t o Hollywood i n t h e 20 's and found i n s t a n t success as a movie s t a r p o r t r a i t photographer. He got f e d up and re t rea ted t o Laguna i n 1930 t o pioneer some new photographic techniques. Mortensen was p r i m a r i l y a p o r t r a i t photographer and i s a lso known for h i s p i c t o r i a l i z i n g o f representa t iona l subject matter, p a r t i c u l a r l y scenes of h igh emotional ism from the c lass i cs and f i lms . He pub1 ished over 9 books and dozens o f magazine a r t i c l e s . He was considered very eccen t r i c wh i l e a l i v e and l a t e r d ied i n obscu r i t y i n 1965 i n h i s Laguna Canyon home. Mortensen was marr ied t o Myrd i th Monaghan who was h i s pr imary model and 1 i f e - l ong companion. He posed her and o ther women -in Laguna f o r many o f h i s scenes which were photographed i n town.

Continued - see attached sheet.

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: ( I f more than one is checked, number in order of importance.) Architecture 1 ~ r t s ~eisure 2 Economic/lndustrial Explorat ion/Set t lement Government Military

Religion SodallEducation

21. Sources (List books. documents. suwws, personal interviews and their dates). Debra Irmas, Mortensenis biographer Barnsdal 1 Park Gal l e r y

Mortensen E x h i b i t Brochure

901-13 South Coast Highway - Continuation The work of Hortensen has undergone a revival in recent years. Recent exhibits at the Barnsdall Park Art Gallery in LO: Angeles, in a New York ~allery, and at the Laguna Art Museum have re-activated interested in his technique with the bromoil transfer and pigment printing processes and his subject matter interpretations.

This building has an important association with a major photographer and is of architectural importance in and of itself.

State of California - The Resources Aeencv I 30-2651-10-34 e Ser. No.

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION I H A B S -- Ififj 3 SHL ____ Loc - UIM: A B .

HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY 1 C D

lDENTIFICATION I, Common name: Ray Family Mortuary

2. Historic name: Laguna Beach Funeral Home

3. Street or rural address: 976 South Coast Highway

City Laguna Beach zip 92651 ~ o u n t y Orawe

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Ownership is: Public Private X X

6. Present use: Commerc i a1 /res i dent i a1 Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Mediterranean Revival 7b. Briefly describe the present physical description of the site or structure and describe any major alterations from i t s

original condition:

This is a two-story Mediterranean Revival building with tile hoods and stucco finishing. The building incorporates a rectangular plan complemented by a tower on the south end of the building. Beneath the tower is a driveway opening reached through a large archway. Tile hoods on the second story drop below the main roof line, leading to pilasters projecting above the hood. A varied arrangement of windows includes some which are arched, some three-part and some multi-paned. Entry is at front center with the door in a Palladian type setting composed of an arch over the door and rectangular windows on either side.

The building is in excellent well-maintained condition and is in use as a mortuary on the ground level and as apartments above.

8. Construction date: Estimated Factual 1929


Builder, C - R * Cl ~ P P

Approx. property size (in fmt) Frontage -.,Uig- Depth ';n, or approx. acreage

Date(s) of enclosed photograph(s1

November 1980

13. Condition: Excellent X G ~ O ~ - Fair - Deteriorated - No longer i n existence -

14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land S c a t t e r e d buildings - Densely built-up Residential - Industrial - Commercial Other:

X 16. Threats t o site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism Public Works project - Other:

X 17. Is the structure: On its original site? Moved? Unknown?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events, and persons associated wi th the site.)

This bui lding acts as one of the primary Mediterranean Revival style bui ldings along South Coast Highway and further takes on historical importance for having been Laguna's primary funeral home since the time it was built.

The original owner was C.R. Clapp, alaguna councilman. The funeral home originally went by the name Laguna Beach Funeral Home and was first operated by M.G. Minter. When first opened the building included an undertaking parlor and a chapel and also offered space as a religious meeting hall.

Though it is now known as the Ray Family Mortuary, this building has served as the primary funeral home in Laguna since 1929. Architecturally this building forms an important focal point along Coast Highway ahd is a fine example of the Mediterranean style in Laguna. The building is one of several along Coast Highway which overwhelmingly contributes to the Laguna vi 1 lage image. m

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: ( I f more than one is checked, number in order o f importance.) Architecture 1 ~ r t s & Leisure Economic/lndustrial E x p l o r a t i o n / S e t t l e m e n t Government Military Religion SocialIEducation

21. Sources (List books, documents, surveys, personal interviews and their dates).

Orange Co. Assessor's Records Laguna City Directories, 1932-45 South Coast Newspaper, 8/23/29

22. Date form prepared May 1981 BY (name) Kathleen Les Organization Environmental Coal it ion Address: 20b W. 4th St., Ste. 316 City Santa Ana z i p 92701

Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks):

State of Cal~forn~a - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT QF PARKS AND RECREATION


@JENTIFI~ATIoN I. Common name: 1009 South Coast Highway

2. Historic name:


Citx Laguna Beach t ip 92653 bunt, Orange

4. Parcei number:


City Zip Ownership is: Public Private x x

ti. Present Use: Residenti al/comnerci a1 Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Streamline Moderne 7b. Briefly describe the present phywcal description of the rite or structure and describe any major alterations from i ts

original condition:

This is an accompanying auto service kiosk and apartment building executed in the Streamline Moderne style. The apartment building is the larger and more dominant of the two structures. It incorporates a strong horizontal feeling in combination with a rectangular plan, flat roof and stucco siding. Horizontal banding below the roofline

.) emphasizes the horizontal qualities. Rounded corners in the north end of the building accentuate the steamship quality which the style sought to emulate. Porthole windows, curved panes along the rounded corners and metal stairway and balustrade further provide the steamship character. The adjacent auto service kiosk also incorporates a horizontal format derived from the use of elongated canopies with rounded edges. The base of the kiosk is basically a box and is topped by a banded vent, again much like one would find on a steamship. The apartment building is still used as such though the gas station kiosk is an auto body business. Both buildings are in good condition and retain their original architectural integrity.

1 8. Construction date: 1938-39 E s t i m a t e d , factual -


10. Builder

I I. Approx. property size [in feet) Frontage 1 qn ' Depth gn ' or approx. acreage

12. Date(s1 of enclosed photagraph(s1 November 1980

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d F a i r Deteriorated - No longer in existence -

14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land - Scattered buildings - Densely built-up

Residential - Industrial - Commercial Other: a

X 16. Threats t o site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism Public Works project - Other:

X 1 7. I s the structure: On its original site? - Moved? Unknown?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events, and persons associated with the site.)

Both buildings were built in 1938-39 just as they appear today. The Vorhees Motor Co., which was an Oldsmobile sales and service agency, was first located here. It appears that the garages on the first level of the apartment building may have been incorporated into the auto agency business.

The Streamline Moderne style in which the buildings were designed arose out of an affirmation of the power and strength of the large steel battleships being built for WW 11. Like these ships, the Streamline Moderne buildings have sleek rounded corners and broad, smooth planes. Often slender metal stairways and small portholes, 1 ike those on this building, were used to further the resemblance of the battleships.

The advent of the Depression cut short the proliferation of the style. Consequently only a few buildings were executed in the style around the region, in general, and in Laguna, in particular. The Coca Cola building in Los Angeles launched the style which is considered to be germain to the Southern California region. Those that do remain from the period and in th

excel lent examples of the style and remain as important landmark buildings in Laguna. p(. style are all the more important because of the general scarcity. The two structures here are

Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks):

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: ( I f more than one is checked, number in order o f importance.) Architecture Arts & Leisure Economic/lndustrial Explorat ion/Set t lement Government Military Religion Sodai/Education

21. Sources (List books, documents, surveys, penonal interviews and their dates).

Orange Co. Assessor's Records Laguna City Directories, 1932-45

Date form prepared May 1981 By (name)

KC - '

L I... Y I "

- -

Organization crlv I r ~11mentaI Leal i tion

Address: 206 W. 4th St., Ste. 316 nta Ana zp 92701 --- --- - City ba

Phone: (714) 8:

30-2651-10-40 CJ Stare o+ Califarnia - The Resources Agency Ser. NO,

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 3 H A B S H A E R N R SHL - Loc- UTM: A 4?7940:'3711380 8

HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY C D

1)DENTiFIcATmN 1. Common name:

1183 South Coast Highway

2. Historic name: Smith Construction Company


City Laguna Beach Zip 92625 County Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Ownenhip is: Public Private X X

6. Present Use: Commercial Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Tudor Revival 7b. Briefly describe the present phys~'cd/ description of the site or structure and describe any majar alterations from its

original condition :

This is a Tudor Revival influenced building located on a corner lot along South Coast Highway. The building maximizes the corner location by placing the architectural emphasis on the cornermost portion of the building. Utilizing a rectangular plan the roof1 ine profile creates an "L" by the counter positioning of two roof gables. A

m smal ler hipped roof emerges from the larger front-f acing gable. This varied roof l ine is enhanced through the use of half-timbering along the gable face and below the eaves. Hipped dormers and an ornamental brick chimney rise out of the hipped portion of the roof further providing the Tudor influence. The lower portion of the building carries out the theme by incorporating ornamental stone embellishments around the two primary arched openings. Large showcase windows are located on the lower front facade. The building is in excel lent condition and appears to be in a state of good repair.

8. Construction date: Estimated 1937 Factual ,-

I 9. A r ~ h i t m Aubrey St. Clait"

lo. Smith Brothers

1 1. Approx. property size (in feet) Frontage .lSn', Depth w' or approx. acreage

12. Date(s) of enclosed photographls) May 1981

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d - F a i r Deteriorated - No longer in existence --

14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than o m i f necessary\ Open land -Scattered buildings - Densely built-up Residential I n d u s t r i a l C o m m e r c i a l Other:

8 X 16. Threats to site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism


17. I s the structure: On its original site? X Moved? Unknown?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events, and penons associated with the site.)

This Tudor Revival b u i l d i n g was o r i g i n a l l y b u i l t by the Smith Brothers t o house t h e i r con t rac t i ng f i r m ; l o c a l a r c h i t e c t Aubrey S t . C l a i r a lso housed h i s p r a c t i c e here.

The Smith Brothers were a prominent and prosperous con t rac t i ng f i r m i n Laguna. They were responsib le f o r the execution o f many la rge ventures i n the c i t y as we1 1 as f o r r e s i d e n t i a l homes. They enjoyed t h e i r heyday dur ing the e ra o f t he Per iod Revival a rch i tec tu re and many o f t he homes and bu i l d ings w i t h which they were involved were constructed i n the Tudor Revival and Normandy Revival s t y l e s l i k e t h e i r own bu i ld ing .

Aubrey S t . C l a i r was a well-known a r c h i t e c t i n Laguna from the per iod o f t he l a t e 20's through the 40's. He a lso was involved w i t h the e r a o f Per iod Revival s t y l e s and was most known as a designer o f homes and bu i l d ings i n the Mediterranean Revival s ty le . Those bu i l d ings which make up the c i v i c center nucleus, t he City Hal l , t he F i r e Department bu i ld ing , and the Water D i s t r i c t b u i l d i n g a l l were o f h i s design.

I n add i t i on t o the h i s t o r i c associations, t h i s b u i l d i n g stands on i t s own as an except ional commercial b u i l d i n g w i t h i n the c i t y . It i s a well-executed example o f t he Tudor Revival s t y l e and forms an a r c h i t e c t u r a l landmark along South Coast Highway.

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: ( I f more than one is checked, number in order o f importance.) Architecture 1 ~ r t s & Leisure 2 Economic/lndustnai Explorat ion/S8tt Iement

Government Military

Religion Social/Education

21. Sources (List books. documents, surveys, personal interviews and their dates).

Norman St. C l a i r South Coast Newspaper 1940 Laguna Map Laguna City Di rec tor ies , 1932-45 Date form prepared May 1981

By (name) Kathleen Les

Organization Environmental C o a l i t i o n Address: 06 W. 4 t h St., Ste. 316 City banta Ana 92/m

(114) 836 - 4314 ZP Phone:

Srate of Caiiforn~a - The Resources Agencv DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION I ser, N,,. 30-2651-10-45 h

3 H A B S H A E R N U S H L L o c -


[ 0 ENTIFICATION

1

1. Common name: Hotel Firenze

3. Street or rural address: 1289 South Coast Highway I

City Laguna Beach zip 92651 b u n t y Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Private XX

Present Use: hotel/commercial same Original use:,

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Mediterranean Revival 7b. Briefly describe the present physicai description of the site or structur and describe any major alterations from i t s

original condition:

This is a two-story Mediterranean Revival constructed in 1928 by the contracting firm of Ropp & Mackey. The bui lding is of a rectangular plan complemented by a tile gable primarily of a

' 0 side-facing gable and a front-facing end. Half of the lower story has a tile hooded projection arches enclosing showcase windows. W-indows are t he multi-paned casement variety. Fenestration large and small windows. The many the building and enhance the Spanish flavor.

The building is still in use as a hotel with comm rcial uses on the first level. It is in excellent condition and retains its original rchitectural integrity.

I 8. Construction date: Estimated Factual

19 28

1 9. Architect Unknown

Builder,

Approx. property size (in f-1 Frontage -.= Depth 1 nn ' or approx. acre-

Dateis) of enclosed. DhotwraPh ($1 - - . .

November i980-

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d - F a i r Deteriorated - No longer in existence - 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessary) Open land - Scattered buildings - Densely built-up Residential - l ndustrial C o m m e r c i a l Other:

X 16. Threats t o site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandalism Public Works project - Other:

X 17. Is the structure: On its original site? - Moved? Unknown?

18. Related features: , I SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events. and persons associated with the site.) This Mediterranean Revival style building was originally known as the Hotel Del Camino and was built by William Riddle, artist and Laguna councilman.

This Mediterranean Revival style building was originally known as La Casa del Camino, but the name was changed soon thereafter to Hotel Del Camino. The rooms were originally let for $2.00 to $3.50 per night. Many stars stayed here at the hotel in its early days while involved in motion picture filming--stars from films such as "All Quiet On The Western Front" and "Evangeline."

The building is notable not only for the stars who stayed there, but also for the original owner and builder. William Riddle was a well-known artist proficient in painting landscape and marine scenes. Riddle started coming to Laguna in the summers during the early 20's to paint, and ended up moving here permanently. He built not only this building but the one at 2007 South Coast Highway, another Period Revival building important in establishing the Laguna image.

What is now the Hotel Firenze is an excellent Mediterranean Revival style building and one which forms an important part of the Laguna village image. Both historically and architecturally, this building is one of the 1 a c t . r w s -

map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and promjnent landmarks) :

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: ( I f more than one is checked, number in order o f importance.) Architecture 1 A m & Leisure 2 Economic/lndustrial Exp lo ra t ion /Se t t lement Government Military

Religion Social/Education~

21. Sources (List books. documents. surveys. penonal interviews and their dates).

Orange Co. Assessor's Records South Coast News, 1/4/29 and 1/25/29 Ted Covern Interview, March 1980

Date form prepared May 1981 By (name) Katl I - - ~

Organization tnvl ran--- Address: 206 w. City Santa A Phone: (114) 8

een ~ e s l~llrr~tal Loalltion 4th St., Ste. 316 in a zip 92701 I * - 4

Srare of Caiifarnia - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION


Ser. No. 30-2651-10-46 i

I HABS- tipf 5 SHL - Loc- UTM: A i!?'iT?T7l 1 R!b

1 !ENTIFICATION

1. Common name: Hotel California

3. Street or rural address: 1316 South Coast Highway ~ I

City Laguna Beach Zip 92651 County Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Private X X

6. Present Use: Residential Original use: ~ S ame

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural style: Art Deco Moderne 7b. Briefly describe the present physical description of the site or structu and describe any major alterations from its

original condition: n This is an Art Deco Moderne apartment/hote ding built in 1831. The stucco building is built on a rectangular plan and h at roof. While otherwise boxy in format, the building is distinguished by a str g vertical emphasis derived from the use of raised pilasters throughout. The mai ntry is at the front center and is articulated by stacked pilasters on either si which results in a pointed parapet ) over the entry location. Large corner pi laste nd srnal ler ones at regularly spaced intervals further emphasize the Egyptian qua1 f verticality common to the style. Fenestration includes a continuous band of paned double-hung windows on the upper and 1 ower 1 eve1 s. I

The building retains all of its original ar hitectural integrity and remains in excel lent, we1 1-maintained condition. The pre ent owner has recently rehabi 1 i tated the building and it is still in use as apartmen i s.

8. Construction date: E s t i m a t e d , Factual 1931

10. Builder Beatrice Dennis Shea and

1 1. Approx. propew si te (in feet) Frontage DL, Depth-' or approx. acreage

12. Date(s1 of e d d photograph (s) November 1980

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d . Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence - 14. Alterations: A

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one if necessaryk Open land -Scattered buildings - Densely built-up Residential - I ndustrial - Commercial Other :

X 16. Threats to site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism


17. I s the structure: On its original site? X Moved? Unknown?


SlGNl F ICANCE 19. Briefly sate historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events, and persons associated with the site.)

Th is A r t Deco Moderne b u i l d i n g was b u i l t by Dennis and Bea t r i ce Shea who had an i c e cream p a r l o r on Forest Avenue which they so ld t o const ruc t t h i s bu i ld ing . It was o r i g i n a l l y c a l l e d t h e Shea Apartments fo r the f i r s t owners. The advent of t h e Depression caused the value o f t he b u i l d i n g t o dec l i ne and t h e Shea's suffered considerable f i n a n c i a l loss.

By 1940 t h e b u i l d i n g was c a l l e d the Laguna Heights Apartments. It has always been a combination hotel /apartment s t ruc ture ; a l l the apartments s t i l l have the o r i g i n a l i c e box. According t o t h e present owner, t h e b u i l d i n g was owned dur ing t h e 50 's by Del Webb as h i s f i r s t west coast ho te l purchase. He l a t e r developed the Newporter Inn and several o ther major ho te l resor ts .

21. Sources (List books, documents. surwys, personal interviews and their dates). Orange Co. Assessor's Records Laguna City Di rec tor ies , 1932-45 Ted Covern Interv iew, March 1981 Paul Christenson, present owner

The b u i l d i n g i s an outstanding example of t he A r t Deco Moderne s ty le , popular i n a l i m i t e d way dur ing the 30's. The presence o f t he Depression a t t h a t t ime slowed the development i ndus t ry considerably and, therefore, no t many b u i l d i n g s were executed i n the s t y le . i s now c a l l e d t h e Hotel C a l i f o r n i a i s an exce l l en t example o f t h e A r t Deco Moderne s ty le , a

what a s t y l e pioneered i n Southern Cal i forn ia, bu t r a r e due t o t h e economic c l ima te o f t he era i n which i s was popular. This serves not o n l y as an important exarr~ple f o r Laguna, bu t fo r t h e Orange County reg ion as we1 1.

22. Date form prepared Mav 1981 BY (name) Kathleen Les

Environmental C o a l ~ t i ~ _ . .

Organization Address: 206 W. 4 t h St., Ste. 316 City Santa Ana ap 92701

(114) 836 - 4314 Phone:

a

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: (If more than one is checked, number in order o f importance.) Architecture 1 Arts & Leisure

Economic/lndustrial Explorat ion/Set t lernent Government Military

Religion Sodal/Education

Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks): v NORTH

State of Cal~fornre - The Resaurces Agency

s=r. N03 3C-2651-10-4P j

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION H A B S H A E R NR SHL, toc- UTM: A 478~6C/371168I! 6


I DENSIFICATION 1. Common name: 1450 South Coast Highway

2. Historic name: Brayton taquna P0tter.y

3. Street or rural address: 1450 South Coast Hiqhway

City Lactuna Beach zip 92651 County Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Ownership is: Public Private xx 6. Presentuse: Commercial Originai use: Commercial/Residential

OESCRlPTlON 7a. Architectural style: Eclectic 7b. Briefly describe the present physicaI description of the site or muaure and describe any major alterations from i ts

original condition:

Th-is is an eclectic styled building which originally served as a pottery studio and factory. The building has its strongest influences in the English tradition in its use of a varied roof 1 ine, steep-pi tched roofs and half-timbering.

The building has a modified IgLig plan, two stories, and a gabled roofline with multiple gables at various angles, pitches and sizes. The building is predominantly faced in stucco, but much ornamental brick is used to face the lower portions, particularly in the front. Now in commercial use, the building is a complex of nooks and crannies comprising several small shops.

The Hobbit quality of the building does much to contribute to the village quality of Laguna Beach. The building is in excel lent, we1 1-maintained condition.

Construction date: 1928 Estimated , , Factual -

Architact Merle Rmseyl Dur 1 in Brayton

Builder th-iknown

Approx. propem site (in ferarf Frontage J l DepthaT! ' or approx. acreage

Date($) of enclosed photograph (st November 1980

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d . Fair - Deteriorated - N o longer i n existence - 14. Alterations:

f 5. Surroundings: (Check more than one i f necessary) Open land - Scattered buildings - Densely built-up Residential - Industrial C o m m e r c i a l X Other:

f 6. fhtears t o site: None known -&-private development - Zoning - Vandalism - Public Works project - Other:

17. Is the structure: On its original site? X Moved? Unknown?

1 8. Related features: ,

SIGNIFICANCE f 9. Briefly state historical andlor architectural importance (include dates, evventt, and persons associated with the site.)

In addition to the architectural uniqueness of the building, it also has historic importance as the Brayton Laguna Pottery studio and factory. The busl'ness was pioneered by artist Our1 in Brayton and was the first major pottery studio in taguna, as well as one of the first in Southern California. Braytan was given land in Laguna for being a WW I veteran. He had been from the midwest originally where he had studied art. He originally opened a painting studio a few blocks away from this location and dabbled in pottery on the side. Clients became more interested in his pottery than his paintings and what resulted has become one of the most historically important pottery factories in the region. It remained at this location until 1968. Brayton was a graduate of the Chicago Art Institute. He began his pottery career by making dinnerware and vases and later became very proficient in figurines. In its heyday, Brayton's pottery was sold internationally and stars and luminaries from all over came to iaguns especially to buy his pottery and ceramics. Nearly 20 top designers worked for him at t h t a factory, among them Ruth Peabody and Charles Beauvais. Continued - see attached sheet.

20. Main theme o f the historic resourn: (If more than one is checked, number in order of irnportanca.1 Architecture & Leiftlre 1 Economic/l n d u s t r i a l ExplorationlSenlement Government Miiitaty Religion Sodai/Education

21. Sources (List books, documents. nrrveys, panonat interviews and their dates). Orange Co. Assessar's Records South Coast Newspaper Ida Harris and Helen McPherson,

f ormer employees Mid-States Ceramic Study Group Newsletter

2 2 Date form prepared -181- By (name) K ; r t u ~ ~ n I PS . . Organization Env1 rflWlULb1 1tln1-1

Address: ?Q6 W. 4 u S t . , S-6 City Santa Ana

(7141 836 - 4314 ~ p . 9 2 7 0 1

Phone:

1450 South Highway Cont inuat ion

Brayton began making ceramic f i g u r i n e s a t a t ime when no one e l s e i n t he count ry was doing so. I n a d d i t i o n t o h i s l i n e i f f i gu r i nes , i n 1938 the Walt Disney Studios made arrangements t o have Brayton make a l l o f t he Disney characters.

Brayton's a r t i s t genius takes more space t o w r i t e about than i s permi t ted here, bu t he i s c e r t a i n l y one o f the master a r t i s t s t o have res ided i n Laguna Beach.

Brayton o r i g i n a l l y l i v e d u p s t a i r s i n the bu i ld ing , bu t i n 1939 he b u i l t h imse l f a home around the corner a t 315 Mountain. Both h i s home and t h i s b u i l d i n g were designed i n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h Merle Ramsey.

The b u i l d i n g and i t s c rea to r D u r l i n Brayton are both important p a r t s o f Laguna's h i s to ry .

State of California - The Resources Agency Ser. NO. 3C-2651-1C?-52 k DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION H A B S HAER NR - 3 SHL - Lac-

UTM: A 428060/3711680 8 HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY C D

II) IDENTI!=Ic*TioN

1

1. Common name: Andree ' s

2. Historic name: Friendly House Tea Room


City Laguna Beach t ip 32651 county Orange

4. Parcel number:


Ci tv Zip Ownenhip is: Public Private XX

6. Present UW: Restaurant Original use: Residence

DESCRIPTION ?a. Architectural style: Eclectic 7b. Briefly describe the present physical description of the site or structure and describe any major alterations from its

original condition:

This is an eclectic styled board and batten building constructed first as a private residence and then converted to a restaurant in the early 30's. The building has wide ample proportions accented by a mirage of gables, dormers, bay windows and canopies. The primary front-facing gable is clipped and sports canopied casement windows on the upper portion and a bay window below.

The building has a modified "6" plan, the inner center of which provides the main entry. The entry is beneath a gabled portico. A large ornamental brick chimney is just to the side of the entry gable. A small one-story portion of the building to the north of the entry features a tiled roof and a Cotswold door. A wishing well is located in front of the building adjacent to the brick path.

The building is in excellent, well-maintained condition and serves as one of the landmark Laguna buildings.

8. Construction date: Estimated ,- Factual


1 1. Approx. p m p w size tin faat) Frontage ?_ant, Depth 1 np ' or approx. acre*

12. Daie(s1 of enciomd photogtsph(s1 June 1981

13. Condition: Excellent X ~ o o d - Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence - 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one i f necessary) Open land - Scattered buildings - Denseiy built-up

Residential I n d u s t r i a l C o m m e r c i a l X Other:

a 16. Threats to site: None known L P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandalism -


1 7. Is the structure: On its original site? 1 Moved? Unknown?



What began as a private residence became the Friendly House Tea Room in the early 30's. Margaret Blair Jackson was the first proprietor. Later in the 50's, Andree's Restaurant was establ ished here and has remained ever since. Celebrities, local artists, and visitors have been dining here for years.

The building has served both as a landmark restaurant and a unique architectural landmark for many years. In combination with the buildings on either side, this is a strong focal point for the village character of South Coast Highw.ay.

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: ( I f more than one is checked. number in order o f importance.) Architecture 1 Arts & Leisure Economic/lndustrial E x p l o r a t i o n B e t t l e m e n t Government Military Religion Sodal/Edu~aion

21. Sources (List books, documants. nuvays. personal interviews and their dates).

Laguna City Directories Laguna News-Post, Date1 ine Edition 1940 Laguna map

22. Date form prepared May 1981 BY (name) Kathleen Les Organization Environmental Coal it ion Address: 6 W. 4th St., Ste. 316 City Santa Ana

(114) 836 4314 - ZP 92701 Phone:

Locational sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks) :

AN"""

Stare of Californ~a - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND,

I Ser. No, 3C-2651.--1.2.-7C 1

I

1. Common name: Ibesen Home



City Laguna Beach Zip 92651 Orange

4. Parcel number:

5. Present Owner: Hugh Ibesen Address:

City Zip Ownership is: Public Private x x 6. Present Use: Beach House Original use: Same

DESCRIPTION 7a. Architectural styla: Hawai i an Co 1 on i a1 7b. Briefly describe the present physical description of the site or structure and describe any major alterations from its

original condition: This i s a two-story board and bat ten beach house which appears t o have been designed w i t h t h e Hawaiian Co lon ia l s t y l e i n mind. The house i s located on the b l u f f t o p and has an ocean o r ien ta t i on . The rectangular p lan s t r u c t u r e has been mounted on t h e b lu f f s ide and fea tures a d is t ingu ished s ingle-gable r o o f w i t h a curved p i t ch . A l ana i on the second s t o r y wraps around the th ree sides c losest t o the ocean; t h i s serves as a

(I) f u r t h e r Hawaiian inf luence. The l a n a i has a s l a t t e d balustrade and i s supported by wood posts. Small square windows on the f i r s t f l o o r are c lus te red together i n groups of f i v e . The bui ' ld ing was o r i g i n a l l y constructed as one story, and what i s now t h e f i r s t s t o r y was added beneath the o r i g i n a l p o r t i o n o f t he house i n the 20's. Besides th i s , there have been no changes whatsoever t o the house.

The design o f the house has a r u s t i c and sett lement q u a l i t y about it. The house i s simple i n format, y e t t he wraparound l a n a i adds considerable a r c h i t e c t u r a l i n t e r e s t along w i t h the sweeping l i n e s o f t he roof . The b u i l d i n g i s i n excel lent , we l l - maintained condi t ion.

8. Construction date: Estimated Factual 1905


10. Builder Unknown

1 1. Approx. property size (in feet) 50' 0epttr-UX.L Frontage .-.

or approx. acrew

12. Oaie(s) of enclosed photograph(s1 November 1980

X 13. Condition: Excellent G o o d Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence - 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: Check more than one if necessary) Open land Scattered buildings - Densely built-up i Residential - I ndustrial C o m m e r c i a l other: Ocean X

16. Threats to site: None known P r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandal ism Public Works project - Other:

X 17. I s the structure: On its original s i t e ? . , Moved? Unknown?

1 8. Related features:


Built in 1906, this Hawaiian Colonial influenced beach house was originally constructed for a woman from New York. She returned to New York while it was still under construction and never came back to live in it. The house sat idle until 1914 when the Ibesen family from Los Angeles bought it as their summer house. They were a real estate and land developing family who have continued to use this as their summer house since they first acquired it in 1914.

The house is among the oldest remaining houses on the oceanfront and is the only one of its design In the city. It has a strong resemblance to those built in Hawaii at the turn of the century. The design in combination with the pristine condition of the house makes it an important landmark building in Laguna.

20. Main theme o f the historic resource: (If more than one is checked, number in ordw of importarrce.) Architecture ~eisure Economic/lndustrial E x p l o r a t i o n M e m e n t Government Military Religion Socid/Education

21. Sources (List books, doarmants, surveys, personal interviews and their dates).

Orange Co. Assessor's Records Hugh Ibesen, owner

22. Date form prepared May 1981 BY (name) Kathleen Les orgn ia t ion Environmental Coal i tion Address: 206 W. 4th St., Ste. 316 City Santa Ana ap 92701 Phone: (/14) 836-4314

I Locations( sketch map (draw and label site and surrounding streets. roads, and prominent landmarks): I

30-2651-1S-71 rn State of Californta - The Resources Agencv Ser. No.

@EPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION I 3 H A B S H A E R M N R S H i L o c -

UTM: A h7QRc;f?/377..1?36 B t-IlSTORlC RESOURCES INVENTORY C D

m IDENTIFICATION 1. Common name: Villa Rockledge

2. Historic name: Frank Miller Home

3. Street or rural address: 2529 South Coast .Hiqhwa.v

City Laauna Beach zip 92651 County Orange

4. Parcel number:


City Zip Ownership is: Public Private xx 8. Present use: Residential - a~artments Original U J ~ : Resi denti a1 - sinqle family

DESCA IPTiON 7a. Architectural style: jpan-i sh Mediterranean Revival 7b. Briefly describe the present physicai description of the site or structure and describe any major alterations from its

original condition:

Known as Villa Rockledge, this is a Spanish Mediterranean Revival estate with a complex of tile gabled buildings cascading over the bluff. Constructed of brick, each features a main gable with various dormers, ornamental masonry chimneys and arched recessions punctuat-ing the main planes. A southerly wing with a Medieval-l ike appearance is bui It into the cliff. It is constructed of stone, has angled sides and a corner turret against the cliff with a conical tiled roof. Large fixed pane, casement and arched windows adorn the facade at erratic intervals. The overall quality is complex, dynamic and with a very pleasant sense of mystery. The building originally served as a single-f mi ly summer home with accompanying guest houses. Xt is now converted to apartments and used on a year around basis. The vi l la is in excellent, well-maintained condition. One must see it from the ocean side to real ly appreciate its beauty.

Construction date: Estimated .- factual T9_2h

Architect

Builder Frank Mi 1 1 er

A P ~ ~ X . prop- size (in feet) Frontage - 150 oemh 150' or approx. awe*

Date(s) of enclosed photogr;lph(s) November 1980

8 13. Condition: Excellent LGOO~ , Fair - Deteriorated - No longer in existence - 14. Alterations:

15. Surroundings: (Check more than one i f necessary) Open land S c a t t e r e d buildings - Densely built-up

Residential industrial C o m m e r c i a l Other: Ocean

16. Threats to site: None known X ~ r i v a t e development - Zoning - Vandalism - Public Works project - Other:

X 17. Is the structure: On its original site? Moved? Unknown?


SIGNIFICANCE 19. Briefly state historical and/or architectural importance (include dates, events. and pemns associated with the site.)

The house was originally built for the Frank Miller family. Mr. Miller was the innovative developer and creator of the Mission Inn in Riverside. Miller pioneered the Mission Revival style inn in Riverside in the early part of the century. He took what was his family's small two-story adobe home and turned it into a large Mission Revival style inn that became the focal point of Riverside and the destination point for tourists from around the country. Miller traveled around the world obtaining ideas and art works for his Mission Inn. He was considered a man ahead of his time; the Mission Inn displayed his prize acquisitions from his worldwide travels. He was particularly interested in the Hispanic and Oriental cultures and their art and traditions.

Utilizing the same designers and builders as he employed on the Mission Inn, he built a summer home for himself in Laguna. He brought to Laguna the same desire for creative architecture as he used in Riverside. Miller spent what became the last years of his life summering here at Vi 1 la Rockledge. He died in 1935 at the age of 78. His Laguna homestead remains today in the same glorious and outstanding condition as when it was first built. It is among the msst outstanding oceanfront homes in the city.

sketch map (draw and label rite and surrounding streets, roads, and prominent landmarks) :

20. Main theme of the h im r i c resource: (If more than one is checked. number in order of importaitce.) Architecture & Leisure Econom ic / l ndus t r i a l Exploration/Settlement Government Military Religion Soaal/Education

21. Sources (List books. doarmma. surveys. personal interviews and their dates).

Orange Co. Assessor's Records The Mission Inn, brochure A Colony For California, Tom Patterson,

22. Date form prepared 1981 BY (name) Kathleen Les organitation Environmental Coal it ion Address: 206 W . 4th St., Ste. 316 City Santa Ana np 92701 Phone: (714) 836 4314 -

. STATE O F CALIFORNIA-THE RESOURCES AGENCY GEORGE DEUKMEJIAN, Governor

"ZPARTMIENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

P .O BOX 2390

SACRAMENTO V5Bll

April 12, 1984i

Mayor o f L a g u n a B e a c h C i t y H a l l C o u n c i l C h a m b e r s 505 F o r e s t A v e n u e L a g u n a B e a c h , CA 9 2 6 5 1

The National Register of Historic Places Program is administered in California by the State Office of Historic Preservation. The property indicated above has been submitted for the Register.

The State Historical Resources Commission will consider this property and niake a judgment as to whether or not it meets the criteria on at

The State Historical Resources Commission recomn~endcd the nomination of tile property to the National Register. It will be presented to the State Historic Preservation Officer for fornial nomination. The final decision will be made by the Keeper of the National Register, U.S. National Park Service, Washington, D.C. 20240.

The property was placed on the National Register

The property was determined eligible for placenlent on the National Register

Place~rlent on the National Register affords a property the honor of inclusion in thc nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation and provides 3 degree of protection i'ro~n adverse effects resulting from federally funded or licensed projects. Registratiorl provides a number of incentives for preservation of historic properties, including special building codes to facilitate the restoration of historic structures, and certai~i tax advantages. There :.re no restrictions placed upon 3 private property owner with regard to normal use, maintenance. or sale of a property listed in the National Register; however, proposals to delnulish registered properties may require a standard review in compliance with local ordinances or the California Environmental Quality iict. In a d d ~ r i c n , ccrtain provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1976 and the Economic Recc,very Tax Ac! of i')Al relate directly to tlie den~olition and replacement of struct!lres listed in the National Kcgistcr.

Sincerely, -

D e p u t y S t a t e i l i s t o r i c P r ( > s e r v n t i o o O i i i c c r A c t i n g C h i e f , O f f i c e of l l i r j ~ u r i c I ' r t ~ s i ~ r v a t i ~ ) r ~

A P R 1 6 I ~ L I

'ev. 1/83)

4?" 42 ' 1 - 1 ; .

rtment of the interior .-, ,- ion and Recreation Service

nal Register of Historic Places ventory-Nomination Form

See instructions in How to Complete National Register Forms T v ~ e ell entries--corn~lete a ~ ~ l i c a b l e sections

1 Name historic Mariona

and/or common Villa Rockledge

2, Location

street & number 2529 SO C o a s t Highway - not for pubii~ation

city, town Laguna Beach N ! vicinity of congressional district 40th

state Cal i fornia 06 countv Orange code

Category Ownership S tus P Present Use - district public occupied - agriculture museum X building(s) private - unoccupied -- commercial - park a- structure - both _- work in progress - educational x private residence - site Public Acquisition Accessible - entertainment religious -- object - in process -X yes: restricted -- government - scientific

- being considered -- yes: unrestricted industrial transportation - no military -- other:

4. Owner of Property

name Roger Jones --

street & number 2529 S. C o a s t Highway

city, town Laguna Beach - vicinity of state California 9265 1

5. Location of Legal Description - courthouse, registry of deeds, etc. Orange County Recorders Office - --

street & number 630 N. Broadway

citv. town San ta R n a state California

6. Representation in Existing Surveys Ldguna Beach His tor ic Resources Inventory -- - -- -- x has this property been determined eiegible'? yes - no L' date ,,,o-,I

-- %!federal -- N/g ta te .k!!d$ounty %%cai

depository for survey records City of Laguna Beach and State tiistoric Preservatiorl G f f i c e -- - - - -- - - --

c~ty, town Sacra r r~en t California - -- state -- -

Check one Check one deteriorated unaltered -xoriginel slte

- ruins - altered moved date -- - -

_ - fair - unexposed --- - -- -- - --

Describe the present and original (if known5 physical appearance

The property known as Villa Rockledge consists of a sprawling Mediterranean Revival Villa complex incorporating Spanish and eclectic elements on 1.3 acres of a precipitous blufftop overlooking t h e ocean in Laguna 3each. Built principally between t h e years 1918-29, t he 7,000 square foot, eight-unit residential complex is the collaborative e f for t of archi tect Arthur Benton and Frank Miller, c rea tor of t h e Mission Inn in Riverside.

The dramat ic oceanfront complex which was begun in 1918 and primarily finished in 1921, was designed by Los Angeles archi tect Arthur Benton; this includes t h e southerly building which follows t h e winding contour of t h e rocky bluff and t he t h r ee lower units of t he northerly building which is sited perpendicular to the coastline. The top unit of t h e northerly wing was added in 1929 and designed by Laguna archi tect Thomas Harper. The ear l ier building was originally planned as a two-family summer estate, but it and t h e second phase addition evolved into eight residential summer units which a r e used as apar tments today.

The two-story complex is fashioned in an L-plan conforming t o t h e coastline and elevation of t h e terrain. The Mediterranean influenced building irrcorporates walls of formed brick and an adobe tiled gable roof, Two rustic stone towers anchor t he building on t he easterly edge; t h e smaller of the two towers is pentagonal, with a conical roof, while t h e larger is an octagonal tower topped with what was originally an open deck but has more recently been enclosed and roofed.

The ear l ier wing fea tures two small en t ry gables, one of which has t h e original name "Marionav embedded above a brick arch. "Two large open orches on t he ocean side of the wing have since been enclosed with glass. The secon $ wing, by contrast , features a projecting circular bay window with a discrete balcony above. The two wings a r e unified in their use of tiled roofs, ornamental chimneys, piaster sidir,g and large casement windows.

The two buildings were designed with simple lines btit a r e adorned with a variety of ornamental features. Like Frank Miller's o ther archi tectural extravaganza, t h e Mission Inn in Riverside, Villa Rockledge incorporates a variety of imaginative and ar t is t ic e lements derived f rom t h e Spanish culture and architecture. Unlike the Mission Inn, however, Vilia Rockledge takes a depar ture froin t he more s t r i c t interpretation of t he Spanish styles into an eclecticism based in t he archi tecture of the English countryside and principally the Cotswold region.

While t h e Mediterranean and Spanisli influences a r e seen in t he use of adobe tiles, arched windows, wrought iron and cloistered entries, t h e English derivative eclecticism is personified in t he whimsical chimneys, multi-paned casement windows and rustic heavy wood doors. The Mission bell and Indian raincross, fashioned in iron, which embellish t h e exterior in several locations, a r e reminiscent of the Mission Inn, as a r e the simulated t r e e branch baiustrades. Correspondingly, t h e English based eclecticism is brought t o the io re also; ornamental Cotswold doors a r e present throughout and most strikingly, t he circular bay window features modified Gothic arches with unusual wavy leaded divisions separating panes in t he transoms. This circular bay window is identical to some which a r e in t h e Riverside

e i s s i o n Inn.

* This cloistered entry portico with its arched opening served as the original entrance to the main unit which was occupied by Frank Miller.

. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

The interior of t h e Villa Rockledge nearly defies a verbal description. To begin with, no two of t h e e ight units a r e alike and none of t he rooms in any of t he units is a perfect square o r rectangle. Miller's imagination and a r t i s t i c sensibilities went t o work on t he interiors and produced an a r ray of tasteful splendor. Every unit incorporates rooms which capitalize on t h e ocean view. Textured plaster walls, open beam ceilings and stone fireplaces a r e common elements on t h e interiors. Interior doors a r e of rustic wood with wa.vy patterned wood cu t s and a r e embedded with brass stars; t h e Indian raincross symbol has been incorporated into t h e door latches. Assorted other touches a r e bestowed intermittently such as bas relief work inlaid in t h e walls, an overhead light f ixture which was originally a ship's wheel and log beamed ceilings located in t he main unit.

The grounds of Villa Rockledge a r e as important as t he building itself.* Separated f rom t h e open expanse of t h e blufftop by t h e buildings, t h e grounds a r e secluded and intimate. Walkways amble around t h e sloping terra in and a r e flanked by low arroyo stone walls. Steps,

e e r r a c e s and pr ivate si t t ing a reas with benches and s ta tues a r e interspersed among rhe gdrdens .of largely nat ive plants. The vegetation is mature and meandering, in t h e way in which Frank Miller would have intended. On t h e beach below is a sea pool formed ou t of concret&*It is one of two such pools which were installed on t h e Laguna coast.

The integrity of t h e building and grounds remains intact , though some alterations have been made. The two large ocean-facing porches have been enclosed with glass as has the. upper deck of t h e large s tone tower. Some windows were modified in t he 19601s, but t he present owner has restored them back t o t he original. One newer building used a s a garage was added in 1973; it is located an t h e rea r of t h e property and is fashioned in a Mediterranean Revival s tyle which complements t h e earl ier buildings and does not de t r ac t from t h e archi tectural integrity of t he ear l ier buildings and t he grounds.

* The building is supported atop a concrete retaining wall below which is located the rocky bluff and shoreline incorporated by design as part of the grounds.

**Sea pools such as this were built at the water's edge for the purpose of catching sea water so that the children could play without harm f ro2 the crashing waves.

Arsas of Slgnlficancb-Ckeck and justify below

economics - literature - sculpture __ education - rnilltary - saclall

- 1700-1799 - art - engineerlng -- music humanitarian - 1880-1 9 - commerce 59 - explorationlseatlernent philosophy - theater

X - 190s- - communicatlons - Industry -- polltlcs/government - transportation - invention X ot er (specify)

cu 1 tural - - - -

Specific dates 1918-21, 1929 BuildsriAirchiPect Frank h!iller, Arthur Benton, Thomas Harper - - . --- -. - - - - - --

Statement of Significance (in one paragraph)

Villa Rockledge, originally known as Mariona, was built by Frank Miller, developer of t h e Mission Inn in Riverside and a leading figure in promoting Mission and Mediterranean influenced architecture in Southern California. Begun in 1918, t h e major portion of Villa Rockledge was designed by Architect Arthur Benton who worked closely with Miller on this building in much the same way as he had on the Mission Inn; a one unit addition on the northerly wing was designed by Laguna Beach archi tect Thomas Harper in 1929. Like t h e Mission Inn, Villa Rockledge incorporated Miller's keen interest in the a r t and archi tecture of t h e Mediterranean countries and personified Miller's fondness for melding various Spanish influenced elements in an eclect ic and dynamic manner.

Frank Miller, as t h e developer of t h e Mission Inn, became a leading regional influence in establishing a new archi tectural identity for Southern California rooted in t he archi tecture of t he early missions and Spanish settlers. Miller brought t he same architect, crews and ar t is t ic ideas t ha t he had used on the Mission Inn in Riverside t o Laguna Beach where he built his summer home in t he then growing coastal resort and a r t colony. He spent t he years from 1918 until his death in 1935 developing and evolving Villa Rockledge in mbch the same way tha t he had done with t he Mission Inn.

Jus t a f t e r the turn of the century, Miller met Rrthur Benton, who in his associatior: with t h e California Landmarks Club was a restoration archi tect of California missions in addition t o designing new buildings in t he Mission Style. The architectural pursuits of Benton coincided perfectly with t he cultural interests of Miller. In 1902, ivliiler hired Benton t o remodel the Clendwood Hotel into a Mission s tyle building. What became known as the Mission Inn grew over t he next 25 years into a major Mission style hotel which a t t rac ted visitors from around the country, including John D. Rockefeller and Teddy Roosevelt.

Through his association with Arthur Benton and the California Landmarks Club, Miller became a leading figure in t he network of influential Californians Seeking t o beautify t h e state and establish a Spanish and Mission influenced image. Founded by Charles Lummis, the California Landmarks Club included prominent architects, such as Arthur Benton and Myron Hunt, and financiers such as Henry E. Huntington who had a special interest in California's early architectural heritage and sought t o have the Mission and Spanish style archi tecture set the theme for Southern California, in particular.

Miller c a m e to Laguna Beach when the coastal resort town was in i t s hey day as an a r t colony. Artists such as William Wendt and Frank Cuprien who made their homes in Laguna gave rise t o a n at t i tude which revered "artistic1' and rrindivid.~alized" architecture. This archi tectural c l imate was ideal for Miller who sought t o lend a new direction t o his interest in Spanish s ty le buildings. Villa Rockledge was a melding of the Mediterranean style (as seen in f h e tiled roof, white-washed brick sides and overall feeling of seclusion) and the c l ec t ' cum emer in in La una each which a .an offsh o t of the rchit tu r of eh

&nglrsk c o u n t r y s l e $as see# In tte ornaamentaFcktmneys, tRe rustic b t s w o q z mnf1uenceS doors and t h e gabled entry portico which served as the original main entrance.)

OF i t l k I hTE'.KIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

OF HISTORIC PLACES INVENTORY -- NOMINATION FORM

CONTI NUATION SHEET Significance . ITEM NUMBER 8 PAGE 3

The second home of Frank Miller is second best only t o i t s progenitor, the Mission Inn in Riverside. Like t h e Mission Inn, Villa Rockledge is a rustic and ambling building full of archi tectural surprises and witicisms. Interior fea tu res such as open ceilings with log beams, use of t h e Indian raincross on t h e escutcheons of door la tches and bas relief work inset in tiles personify Miller's continued use of imagination and an a r t i s t i c incorporatian of archi tectural e lements borrowed in concept o r physically imported from other countries. Several exter ior e lements a r e reminiscent of t he Mission Inn including t h e balustrades of simulated logs, its many cloistered entries, its ambling walkways and lush landscaping.

The building today st i l l re ta ins its original integrity of location, design, workmanship and feeling as designed and executed by builder Frank Miller and a rch i tec t Arthur Benton despite minor a l tera t ions such a s t h e porch enclosures. The building remains a s an important legacy t o Frank Miller, t h e guiding spiri t behind t h e Mission and Spanish Revival archi tectural movement in Southern California and t o t h e work of reaionallv important

-chi tect Arthur Benton. a

Colony for California, Tom Pattcrson 1971 Historic 1'1-lotos dated 1923 onstructive Californians, 1926

Architectural Plans siened bv Arthur Benton. 197 1

.1 O. Geographical Data --- -

Acreage of nomlnated property 1.3 acres

Quadrangle name Laguna Beach UMT References

* L L _ 1 U U Zone Eastlng Northing

1:24000 Quadrangle scale

Zone Easting Northing

Verbal boundary description and justification

Lots 5 and 6 of the Tract known a s Rockledge-by-the-Sea, County of Orange, California

List all states and counties for properties overlapping state or county boundaries

state code county - -

code -- --

state code county code

1. Form Prepared By

namettitle Kathleen Les - - - - - - ----

organization - Heritage Orange County date 7/27/53 - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - . - --

street a number 106 W. 4th Street, Suite 503 teleDhone (714) 535-7237

city Or town Santa Ana state California

12. State Historic Brceserwation Officer Certificatiorp The evaluated significance of this property within the state is: -

- national state local - ~-

As the designated State Historic Preservation Officer for the National Historic Preservation Act st 1966 (Public Law 89- 665), 1 hereby nominate thls property for inclusion in the National Register and certify that it has been evaluated according to the criteria and procedures set forth by the Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service.

State Historic Preservation Officer signature . -- . - - .- - -

title date

south coast highway - city of laguna beach - home

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