An Amble Around the Gamble

An Amble Around the Gamble

The architectural brethren team of Greene and Greene, created (with the expertise of many) The Gamble  House, a  magnificent Arts and Crafts masterpiece in Pasadena, Ca,  It is also  a National Historic Landmark and museum.  The Greenes designed the house in 1908, for the Gamble family, of Proctor and Gamble fame.

Hallmarks of the  Arts and Crafts Movement in American Craftsman style architecture include the use of natural materials, attention to detail, aesthetics, and craftsmanship.

The Greenes, brothers Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene, were influenced by  traditional Japanese aesthetics, though they never, as we were told, visited Japan.   Outdoor  and indoor space were considered of equal importance in the design, as the Greenes used nature as a guide.

Relief and shelter from the hot sun of Southern California climes were created through wide, overhanging eaves.

The use of wood seems to be celebrated through the design, as well as the juxtaposition of textures, earthy, natural colors, and the finishes and hues of stone, metals, glass and patina, all reflecting the expression and experience of nature, the passing of time, and even planned imperfections,  which were part of the architectural and design philosophy.

Exterior porches  such as the one below are found off three of the second-floor bedrooms and were used for sleeping or entertaining. This one was used by the sons of David and Mary Gamble, as told to us by our amiable  and hardworking guide, who was entrusted with taking us through the entire first floor, and front exterior of the house in 20 minutes!  I think she stretched it to 1/2 hour, but she did it!

We will continue our “Amble Around the Gamble” series in the next post, with a focus  on some of  the wondrous exterior details of The Gamble House.  Hopefully, with a longer time next in Pasadena, I will be able to celebrate the interior of the house, right here on “Artissima, blog of ArtiFactory Studio“. Ciao for now!

Have You ever visited The Gamble House, seen the work of Greene and Greene, or other Arts and Crafts buildings?

If so, please share about it with us here.  We love to hear from You.

Remember, we are all ambling and gambling our way through this thing called Life, together.  Happy Trails!