The 1970s are cool again, way cool again, and here’s proof. A stunningly well-preserved example of mid-70s modernism, this residential showstopper came to market just over a month ago. The listing went viral, with more than 600 people reportedly flocking to the property’s open houses. And the place quickly sold for $5.5 million, a groovy $1 million over the asking price. Yeah, baby!
That sale price is one of the biggest numbers ever recorded in Sierra Madre, a quaint village on the outskirts of Los Angeles, nestled into the foothills of the San Gabriel Valley. Records reveal the spendy buyer is Michael Glick, a longtime L.A.-based food wholesaler who clearly has a thing for groovy ’70s houses. Last year, he put his spectacular 1975 retreat in Topanga on the market for $12 million, though that house has not yet sold.
As for the Sierra Madre property, the nearly 7,000-square-foot house was designed by architect John Andre Gougeon and is sited on a nearly 3-acre hilltop promontory, complete with glorious views in all directions. Tucked out of sight behind a long, gated driveway, at the very end of a virtually unknown cul-de-sac, the tomahawk-shaped residence last sold in 2010 for $2.2 million.
Inside, the home’s one-of-a-kind floorplan is best described as eccentric. The main floor holds three of the structure’s five bedrooms, including the master, plus the kitchen and a living room. Downstairs are the dining room and a notably spacious step-down family room, in addition to the remaining two bedrooms, an office and a wine room.
But taken as a whole, the structure is undeniably an impressive showpiece. Liberal applications of wood and stone throughout are highlighted by the home’s dozens of large windows and skylights, which filter in the warm glow of natural light. The windows also provide spectacular views of mountains and city lights.
