A Polished Midcentury Gem Hits the Market in California for $949K
Designed by architect Chalfont Head in 1950, the French Residence is a captivating home that’s been beautifully preserved.
Designed by architect Chalfont Head in 1950, the French Residence is a captivating home that’s been beautifully preserved.
It’s not every day that a restored midcentury home hits the market in California for less than one million dollars, but that’s the case with the French Residence. Located in the small city of Fillmore, the historic home is perched above a gently sloping valley, overlooking the Topatopa Mountains. It was designed in 1950 by architect Chalfont Head for Dr. William French, the area’s primary physician, and it remained in the family for nearly 70 years.
In 1950, architect Chalfont Head designed The French Residence in Fillmore, California, for Dr. William French and his family. The redwood-clad home sits on a spacious lot, surrounded by neighboring midcentury abodes. Upon arrival, the gravel driveway opens to a motor court and a two-car garage.
Photo by Cameron Carothers, courtesy of Brian Linder
When ownership changed hands several years ago via a private sale, the buyers sought to completely restore the property, which was in dire need of renovation. Up for the challenge, the new (and current) owners struck the right balance of preservation and modernization, peppering the home’s original bones with contemporary amenities.
Large windows fill the interior with natural light, further highlighting the home’s striking material palette of wood, brick, and cement. A passthrough between the dining area and kitchen caters to smooth entertaining.
Photo by Cameron Carothers, courtesy of Brian Linder
One such upgrade is the radiant-heated concrete flooring, which runs throughout the dwelling’s L-shaped layout and complements the original Douglas fir woodwork and exposed brick. The owners also restored the extensive built-ins, hardware, and tile. In the kitchen, all-new appliances stand alongside period cabinetry in a seamless blend of past and present.
The bright and airy kitchen features new stainless-steel appliances, which pop against the original wooden cabinetry. A broad, two-pane picture window overlooks the manicured yard.
Photo Courtesy of Brian Linder
See the full story on Dwell.com: A Polished Midcentury Gem Hits the Market in California for $949K
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