Prepare to be captivated: This architectural gem from the 1950s, dreamed up by the legendary California duo Conrad Buff and Donald Hensman, seems to almost float above a wandering, spring-fed stream in Pasadena’s lush San Rafael neighborhood. Listed for just under $2.8 million, it’s already caused a stir—pending sale after barely a week on the market. The serene location and authentic design are drawing both applause and controversy. Why? Because homes that preserve midcentury heritage so faithfully are rare, and opinions about modern updates on historic properties can be divisive.
Originally commissioned in the early 1950s by John “Jack” Norton—an oil supervisor who pivoted to engineering—and his wife, Laurel, this residence began its story for roughly $11,500. Since then, it’s been carefully preserved and thoughtfully modernized, passing through only four owners. Glenn and Maggie Rothner, the current custodians, purchased the property in 2011 for $1.3 million. Known as the Norton House, its architectural pedigree was recognized in a 1958 feature in Sunset Magazine and solidified with a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. In 2013, the home took center stage on a Pasadena Heritage driving tour celebrating the city’s midcentury-modern treasures.
Let’s take a step inside: Perched on a gentle hillside spanning nearly a third of an acre, the low-slung, flat-roof structure encompasses approximately 2,500 square feet across two floors, offering four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Its harmonious blend of wood and glass connects the indoor living spaces to the scenic landscape outside, while the interior boasts both cork and polished concrete floors, generous built-in storage, and dramatic post-and-beam ceilings punctuated by skylights. French doors further blur the line between indoors and nature, inviting sunlight and breezes throughout the home.
As you enter through a vivid orange front door, you’re welcomed into a central vestibule that flows directly into the expansive living room, where a broad, rough-hewn concrete block fireplace with integrated seating commands attention. The dining area sits alongside, leading into a thoughtfully updated kitchen, which features an original mosaic-tile backsplash alongside new ivory-toned cabinets, sleek quartz counters, and high-end Miele appliances. A cozy breakfast nook completes the kitchen’s inviting atmosphere.
Here’s where it gets especially interesting: Beyond the kitchen, a corridor separated by a pony wall leads to two bedrooms sharing a bathroom equipped with a sunken tub and shower that overlook a charming Japanese-style garden. The primary suite—a true private retreat—has its own office, direct patio access, and a bathroom featuring a single-mold concrete sink and countertop. Downstairs, you’ll find a guest suite and laundry area, providing practical comfort without sacrificing style.
But that’s just the start. The grounds, woven with lush foliage, are dotted with balconies, terraces, and charming bridges and stairways linking the home’s social spaces with vegetable gardens, tranquil ponds, and a fire pit—perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. A street-facing carport in front accommodates two vehicles. Even better, this property enjoys the historic preservation advantages of the Mills Act, offering substantial property tax reductions in exchange for meticulous maintenance of its period charm.
And this is the part most people miss: The debate about how we balance modern upgrades with historical preservation is alive and well. Should such homes remain time capsules, or is sensitive updating a way to keep them vibrant for future generations?
What’s your take—do you think this property strikes the right balance between honoring history and embracing contemporary living? Or does its evolution risk diminishing its original spirit? Share your perspectives in the comments below—let’s spark an honest conversation about what we owe to our architectural heritage.
