820 N Verano Drive, Glendora, CA 91741

Property Description

Positioned on 1.6 acres of tranquil, majestic grounds rests the storied Singer Albourne Mansion, commissioned in the final years of Prohibition by the heir to the Singer Sewing Machine empire and designed by iconic architect Wallace Neff. Enshrined in the National Register of Historic Places, this legacy estate brings with it a rich history and pedigree for the most discerning collector of the world's finest. Although preserved and updated by each subsequent owner, two extensive renovations have been recently performed, the first of which was the transformation of the grounds from 2003 to 2006, and the second was in 2022, when its interior was entirely repainted in period-appropriate colors and returned to its 1930s decor as the kitchen and some bathrooms were also fully remodeled. Home to the largest rose collection in the United States, the property comprises various themed gardens: French, English, Mediterranean, Asian (with koi pond and bridge), Tropical, Biblical, and Woodland. Brick-laid pathways, soothing fountains, and formed hedges provide enchantment and wonder for the fortunate residents and their guests. Inside the main home, a Greek Revival foyer with Baccarat crystal chandelier features a signature Neff staircase and Carrara marble flooring. Rare Connemara marble, originating in Ireland, surrounds the fireplaces found in both the living room and the mahogany-paneled library/cigar lounge. Original red oak floors flow throughout each space. For optimized indoor-outdoor living, a south-facing veranda overlooks the gardens below. The kitchen, while retaining its original footprint, has been extensively renovated with new materials plus chef-grade appliances and includes a butler's pantry, window seat, and eat-in caterer's kitchen (formerly the servant's dining room). At the top of the staircase is an original iron security door for sectioning off the second-level bedrooms from the first level via lock-off. The sumptuous six-room owner's wing includes a parlor/sitting room, changing room, walk-in closets, two fireplaces, and access to both north and south terraces. The large en-suite bathroom has a separate soaking tub alcove and large shower. On the basement level, discover billiards, a screening room, and an English pub with original bar. Through a concealed door is a steel-lined safe room, one of the first of its kind, that functions as a speakeasy, complete with iron wine rack and original prohibition drain (for quick disposal of such banned spirits of the time). On the property are three ADUs, including a full free-standing 2,000-square-foot guest house with two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a full kitchen, and laundry. There is also a private pool and spa, an apartment above the garage, and one of Glendora's first school houses (circa 1880s) with room for one teacher and four students! A sprawling motor court allows for at least sixteen vehicles. Due to its lush, manicured grounds and separate structures for preparation, the estate is sometimes offered as a wedding or photo venue to generate additional income. This truly exceptional, only-of-its-kind estate now awaits its next fascinating chapter. Welcome!