Altadena has officially established its first historic district, the "Millionaire’s Row" area, following a unanimous vote by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. This designation covers a stretch of Mariposa Street, preserving the architectural integrity of 16 homes built between 1887 and 1920, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning.
The Designation of Millionaire’s Row
The Board of Supervisors approved the historic district status to protect the unique character of the neighborhood, which features residences designed by renowned architects of the early 20th century. According to the official county records, the district includes homes representing various architectural styles, including Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean Revival.
By achieving historic district status, these properties are now subject to specific design guidelines. Any exterior modifications or new construction projects within the district boundaries must undergo a review process to ensure they remain consistent with the neighborhood’s historical aesthetic. This move aims to prevent the demolition or significant alteration of structures that defined the community’s early development.
Architectural and Historical Significance
Altadena’s Millionaire’s Row earned its nickname during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when wealthy residents from the East Coast and Midwest moved to the area for the climate. Many of these individuals commissioned prominent architects, such as Frederick Louis Roehrig and Charles and Henry Greene, to build expansive estates along Mariposa Street.
The Los Angeles County Landmarks Commission evaluated the district based on its contribution to the cultural and architectural heritage of the region. The commission noted that the concentration of intact, high-quality residences provides a rare look at the lifestyle and social history of Altadena’s foundational years.
Impact on Property Owners and Development
The designation serves as a preservation tool rather than a freeze on development. Homeowners within the district retain the right to renovate their properties, provided the work aligns with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
According to the county’s guidelines, the primary intent is to maintain the "streetscape"—the visual experience of the neighborhood as seen from the public right-of-way. This includes preserving mature landscaping and original architectural features like porches, siding, and rooflines.
Comparison to Other Historic Districts
While Altadena is an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, it often relies on county-level land use policies for historic preservation. This designation aligns with the broader county strategy of identifying and protecting historical resources, a practice also seen in other unincorporated communities throughout the region.
Unlike municipal historic districts in cities like Pasadena or Los Angeles, which often have their own local preservation commissions, Altadena’s district is governed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and the Regional Planning Department. This provides a formal framework for preservation that was previously unavailable to the Altadena community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for homeowners in the district?
Homeowners must obtain a "Certificate of Appropriateness" for major exterior changes. Routine maintenance, such as painting with historically accurate colors or general landscaping, typically does not require a complex review.
Does this change property taxes?
The historic district designation itself does not trigger a tax increase. In some cases, owners of historic properties may be eligible for the Mills Act, a state program that allows for property tax relief in exchange for a commitment to preserve the historic structure.
Can new homes be built in the district?
Yes, but new construction must be compatible with the scale, massing, and architectural style of the surrounding historic homes. The design review process ensures that new additions do not compromise the historic character of the area.
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