Calvin Straub Wirick House (1958) | Pasadena Post-and-Beam Tour
Description
Step inside the Thomas & Barbara Wirick House (1958), a defining example of post-and-beam architecture by Calvin Straub.
Designed during a pivotal moment when Straub was collaborating with former students Conrad Buff and Donald Hensman, this home represents the early formation of what would become the influential firm Buff, Straub & Hensman. The residence is recognized by the National Register of Historic Places as a key achievement in residential modernism, where structure and space are seamlessly integrated.
Located in Pasadena, the home reflects strong Japanese and Craftsman influences—echoing traditions seen in Gamble House—while embracing the clean lines and openness of mid-century modern design.
The architecture is expressed through exposed wood posts and beams, extended rooflines, and precise joinery. Double-height spaces and expansive glazing create a strong indoor-outdoor connection, making the home feel significantly larger than its footprint. Every room opens to a patio or deck, reinforcing that seamless flow between interior and exterior.
Inside, much of the home remains in original condition, including custom cabinetry, stainless steel countertops, and vintage appliances. Thoughtful updates—like a refined cork floor and a discreetly integrated elevator—demonstrate how modern interventions can coexist with historic architecture without disrupting the original design intent.
Set within a vibrant architectural community, this home captures the essence of California modernism—where structure, light, and nature come together in a cohesive and timeless design.
Property Information
Property: Wirick House
Architect: Calvin Straub, FAIA
Year Built: 1958
Location: Pasadena, California
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Interior: 1,744 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,487 sq ft
Price: $2,980,000
Address: 1617 Pleasant Way, Pasadena, CA
Credits
Video Collaboration:
• Mark H. Mendez (@markhmendez)
• Marcus Vazquez (@marcusvazquez)
Listing Agents:
• Lilian Pfaff (@lilianpfaff)
• Nate Cole (@moderncaliforniahouse) – Modern California House
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Wirick House (1958)
00:07 Calvin Straub and Architectural Background
00:13 Buff, Straub & Hensman Context
00:24 Japanese and Craftsman Influence
00:42 Double-Height Living Space and Volume
01:04 Indoor-Outdoor Connection Explained
01:23 Exterior Beam Expression and Roofline
02:20 Structural Design and Joinery Details
03:05 Floor Plan and Spatial Organization
03:34 Primary Bedroom and Open Connection
03:54 Original Kitchen and Materials
04:29 Integrated Elevator Design
05:06 Outdoor Spaces and Flow
05:42 Lifestyle and Architectural Value
06:00 Closing and Market Insight
Keyword
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Hashtag
#MidCenturyModern #PasadenaHomes #ModernArchitecture #PostAndBeam #ArchitectureTour #LuxuryRealEstate #CaliforniaHomes #BuffStraubHensman #Design #MCM