Amy B.
Yelp
Sequestered off of Pacific Coast highway, Adamson house is secluded not on a coastal bluff but rather a lagoon.
Once you make your way through the parking lot and through the ordinary gateway you are transported to an "enchanting site" like no other. As you follow the pathway to the Spanish Colonial Revival style home you will fall in love. The Malibu lagoon is romantic and gorgeous, followed by views of Surfrider Beach. The whole trek up to the house is breath taking. The flowers that lined the pathway provided a kaleidoscope of color. Even the view from the bathroom was mesmerizing. The window was left open and the salty smell of the ocean was brought in with the breeze.
I believe this Historical Landmark is the absolute most picture perfect venue for a wedding. The rolling waves are a stirring roar in the background. A short path leads to a manicured lawn overlooking the vast seascape. Imagine the scene, set with white chairs, flowers and aisle runner; the wild ocean backdrop and the charming 1929 historical home both as embellishments as you pledge your vows.
*Also they do allow the home to be opened during weddings for tours. What a fun way for the guest to be entertained while the bride and groom sneak off and try and capture their moment on film.
We were drawn here in hopes of checking off another CA historical landmark, but left more satisfied than expected. For many of the landmarks the most exciting part is the plaque. However, this landmark provided some fresh air when its highlight was not the plaque, but instead the house itself. A guided tour is a must! The docent was very knowledgeable and even the kids held an interest.
Organic, curvaceous, geometric, angular, elongated, dramatic, flowing, swirling, minimal, monumental, intimate, rough, fine, smooth, vibrant, earthy, naturalistic, etc. all these words and so many more could be used to describe the tile work alone. Each bathroom had its own unique tile pattern that was mind blowing. I could have got lost in each one, the detail was unlike I have every seen. The tile work was my favorite part, along with the history of the tile work. Apparently chemicals such as cobalt were used to give the tile its colors. Although there was no proof that it could harm people in the home, there was still a worry for the workers who made the tile. Causing cessation in the use of chemicals in tile.
Malibu Potteries, was the company founded by May Rindge. This particular company is responsible for "producing the most beautiful work of that era." May Rindge discovered their land was rich with the natural resources needed to make ceramic tile. She hired Rufus Keeler as her plant manager. The factory opened in 1926. The tiles were used not only in their home but many homes and even in Los Angeles City Hall and The Mayan Theatre.
Beyond the tile, every hand painted detail of this home gave it a unique charming character. It is extremely difficult for me to pick and choose what to write about regarding this home. I was truly in love with everything about this place. I could write a novel describing the home and artwork. But instead I must insist that you visit this place that was once home to the Chumash Indians.
* A fun fact, this home only took 18months to build. Architect Stiles O. Clements was the designer and he collaborated with decorator John Holtzclaw for the interior.
