UPDATE: Pasadena is gearing up for an extraordinary celebration as the city’s popular Craftsman Week expands to a weeklong event, running from October 12-19, 2023. This year’s festivities promise to showcase the architectural charm of Craftsman homes, captivating residents and visitors alike.
The surge in popularity of Craftsman homes stems from their intimate connection to nature and craftsmanship, drawing in families like Annette and Tom Yasin, who relocated to Pasadena over a decade ago. After falling in love with the iconic Dr. Robert H. Sutton Bungalow, they discovered the allure of Craftsman architecture characterized by low-slung roofs and textured wood surfaces. “It’s cozy. It’s warm,” Annette reflects, highlighting the emotional warmth these homes provide.
As the demand for well-crafted homes continues to rise, Pasadena Heritage has expanded Craftsman Week to incorporate more events, allowing for greater community involvement and institutional partnerships. Key highlights include tours of historic homes, lectures, and a craft fair, celebrating both famous and everyday Craftsman creations.
The week kicks off with exciting events at the Gamble House, including a “Fire and Light” tour showcasing leaded glass and a special outdoor concert series hosted by the Pasadena Conservatory of Music. Notably, the event will also feature the work of Cha-Rie Tang, a tile artisan renowned for her intricate designs inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement.
Craftsman architecture, which reached its zenith from the early 1900s to the 1920s, emerged as a response to the mass-produced, generic designs of the Industrial Revolution. It emphasizes handcrafted quality, natural materials, and harmonious design, making it especially appealing in today’s fast-paced, digital world. The expansion of Craftsman Week reflects a growing appreciation for sustainable living and quality craftsmanship, resonating deeply with modern sensibilities.
Residents and visitors can look forward to a series of walking tours exploring Pasadena’s cherished neighborhoods, including Bungalow Heaven and Arroyo Terrace. Many of these tours have sold out, indicating the heightened interest in these unique homes. “Craftsman is more popular than ever,” says Bridget Lawlor, preservation director for Pasadena Heritage, emphasizing a cultural shift towards valuing quality and craftsmanship over disposable, mass-produced goods.
As the Craftsman movement gains momentum, it’s also making its mark in popular culture. Recent productions, including the Apple TV+ series “Shrinking,” have chosen Pasadena’s Craftsman homes as filming locations, showcasing their inviting warmth and aesthetic appeal. This visibility reinforces the emotional connection many feel toward these homes, as they serve as both a backdrop and a source of comfort in storytelling.
The celebration of Craftsman Week not only highlights the architectural beauty of Pasadena but also fosters community connections. Craftsman porches and open living spaces promote interaction among neighbors, creating a sense of belonging in an increasingly disconnected world. “The idea was to be frank and honest,” notes tour guide John G. Ripley, reflecting on the foundational principles of Craftsman design.
With a strong lineup of events and a vibrant community atmosphere, Pasadena’s Craftsman Week is set to be a significant cultural moment. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate, explore, and celebrate the enduring legacy of Craftsman architecture. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Pasadena—mark your calendars for this week of creative celebration!
