Millard House: World’s Most Expensive Modular Home Up For Sale In Pasadena

Millard House

Maybe it’s because I come from southern Missouri, but when I hear “modular home,” I think trailer. That’s definitely not the case for this 4,230-square-foot residence up for sale in Pasadena, Calif. Not only is it not a trailer, but the modular home known as the “Millard House” was designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright back in 1923. Perhaps it’s that unique history that’s made the Millard House the most expensive modular home in the world with a $4.49 million asking price.

Millard House

Wright designed and built the home for book dealer Alice Millard for just $17,000 90 years ago. He used concrete blocks in order to reduce construction costs, but had each one carved with a cross and square pattern to ensure the home’s lasting beauty. The blocks are composed of gravel, minerals, concrete and sand, which give them a matte appearance on the exterior of the house. On the interior, however, the blocks are smoother and more pleasing to the eye.

Millard House

Wright also used as many natural materials as possible so the structure would blend with its lush, vegetative surroundings. The residence features two kitchens, three bathrooms, three bedrooms, fireplaces, a servant’s rooms, living room, dining area, semi-attached garages and a reflecting pool. Wright also designed the garden with inspiration from his travels to Japan.

Millard House

Because it holds the significance of being the first home designed using Wright’s particular modular technique, the home, which Wright called “La Miniatura” is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Millard House
Millard House

[Images via Millard House]