Sunday, June 2, from noon to 5 p.m.
The Annual Great Homes Tour, a self-driving architecture tour presented by Long Beach Heritage, was selected as a featured event for this year’s inaugural Long Beach Architecture Week.
The week will include a series of tours, events and educational opportunities that celebrate architecture, preservation, sustainability, and new development. A special issue of Long Beach Home + Living Magazine will highlight the celebration.
The Great Homes Tour features one-of-a-kind houses designed and built by some of the most renowned names in the city’s architectural history, including Miner Smith, Cliff May and Hugh Davies. Many of the homes maintain the original architectural elements, while others have been carefully rehabilitated to respect the original design. They are located throughout Long Beach, in the charming neighborhoods of Belmont Heights, Bluff Park, Virginia Country Club, Bixby Knolls and Rancho Estates.
Early bird discounts offered through May 14th
Proceeds from this event support maintenance and operation of the historic Bembridge House. Long Beach Architecture Week will donate a portion of profits from all events to Long Beach Heritage.
Six architecturally significant private residences have been selected for the 2019 Great Homes Tour.
Miner Smith Bungalow Mansion
Built in 1921 by artisan builder Miner Smith, this Belmont Heights home has been lovingly restored by the current owner, who was honored at the 2019 Long Beach Heritage Preservation Awards.
Cliff May Ranch House
This 1953 Rancho Estates residence by Cliff May and architect Chris Choate is full of light and built around a spacious private courtyard with a pool and outdoor entertaining area. It has been carefully restored with respect to the mid-century style while updated for today’s living.
Belmont Heights Colonial
An elegant home on an oversized lot, this 1924 Colonial Revival features a gray-bottomed pool with a large waterfall, a charming guest house, rich original details and four spacious bedrooms.
“20th Century House”
A masterpiece designed by renowned architect Hugh Davies, this Bixby Knolls stunner was known as the “20th Century House” when it was built in 1936. The home has exquisite details, including a curved walnut staircase with copper rails, and was honored with a Preservation Award in 2006.
Oceanside Prairie
This beautiful 1913 Bluff Park home, steps from the ocean, offers views of Catalina Island from the second story and an outdoor garden room with a fireplace.
Virginia Country Club Ranch
This sprawling ranch-style home, set on expansive park-like grounds, feels like a rural oasis within one of the city’s most elegant neighborhoods. Built in 1953, the home has a golf course view and space for a small horse and chickens.