Discover Pasadena’s Hidden Art Deco Gems
Pasadena might be known for Craftsman charm and Spanish Revival elegance—but tucked throughout the city are striking examples of another era: Pasadena Art Deco. And you don’t have to visit New York or Miami to get your fix.
In fact, some of Pasadena’s best-kept Art Deco secrets are hidden in plain sight—along Colorado or Lake Avenue, in Madison Heights, and throughout the city in unexpected commercial corners and residential details that showcase the beauty of Pasadena Art Deco.
What Makes a Building Art Deco?
Before you head out to explore, here are a few hallmark features of Art Deco architecture to keep an eye out for:
- Geometric patterns and symmetry
- Zigzags, chevrons, sunbursts, and stylized florals
- Smooth stucco or concrete exteriors
- Decorative metalwork, especially aluminum and chrome
- Stepped facades and fluted columns
- Vertical emphasis and flat roofs
These design elements reflect the optimism, energy, and innovation of the 1920s and ’30s—an era eager to embrace the machine age and modern style.
Where to Look in Pasadena.
Here are a few highlights and areas where you can spot these stylish survivors of a bygone era:
- First Trust Building (595 E Colorado Blvd) – An iconic six-story tower with a strong Art Deco presence and classic setbacks.
- The former United Artists Theater (now Laemmle Playhouse 7, 673 E Colorado Blvd) – While mostly stripped, some Art Deco design elements remain in the details.
- Lake Avenue – Look closely at the 1930s-era storefronts and office facades between Colorado Blvd and Del Mar. Many retain original stepped parapets and geometric flourishes.
- Madison Heights – Though primarily residential, some buildings in this historic district show off early Deco details, especially along El Molino and Oakland Avenues south of California Blvd.
- 99 S Raymond Avenue – Once home to the Pasadena Star-News, this building features subtle Art Deco and Streamline Moderne detailing that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking up.
- The Colorado at Lake (corner of Colorado Blvd & Lake Ave) – This commercial corner boasts early Moderne architectural influences with strong vertical lines and angular flourishes.
- Bullock’s Pasadena (now Macy’s, 401 S Lake Ave) – While remodeled over the years, the building still displays hints of its 1940s Art Deco origins in its geometric patterns and structural symmetry.
Walk, Look Up, and Be Surprised.
You don’t need a formal tour to enjoy Pasadena’s Deco. Try this: Take a walk on Lake Avenue between California Blvd and Del Mar on a quiet morning. Look above the shop signs at cornices, moldings, and facade details. You’ll find everything from Deco lettering to geometric tilework hiding above eye level.
Or stroll the leafy streets of Madison Heights and spot Deco-influenced buildings with fluted entryways or ornamental glass block. These aren’t the grand movie palaces of Hollywood—but they’re real, local, and deeply tied to Pasadena’s evolution.
Why We Love Featuring These Hidden Gems.
At Around Town Pasadena, we’re passionate about discovering not just homes—but the rich history and design styles that shape our neighborhoods.
Hem-young and Dominic deFazio have helped hundreds of clients connect with the character and potential of properties throughout Greater Pasadena—and as longtime residents (and former Mount Washington homeowners), we’ve seen firsthand how Pasadena’s hidden details make it so special.
To learn more about Southern California or Pasadena preservation efforts, visit the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles and Pasadena Heritage.
Each week, we highlight something unique—architecture, history, dining, or art—to help you fall in love with Pasadena all over again. Pasadena’s beauty isn’t just skin deep—it’s in the craftsmanship, the creativity, and the character of every corner. That’s the spirit we bring to every listing we represent.
Want to see how our listings reflect this same attention to detail? Check out our Featured and Sold Listings to see the homes we’ve represented—and how Pasadena style translates into real estate success.
📍 Featured This Week: 1357 El Corto Dr (Now in Escrow!)
This highly buildable cul-de-sac lot in Altadena’s Old Country Club neighborhood was featured last week—and we’re happy to report it’s now in escrow and ready to close! Thank you for your continued interest and support.
