A Charming Chateau in the Heart of Newhall

by Joshua Price

Square Footage — 4,194
Lot Size ———–  0.27 acres
Year Built ——— 1981
Garage ————- 3
Bedrooms ——— 5
Bathrooms ——– 4

Each and every home is an echo of its owners, a mirror of their inner creativity.  Of course, this is no exception to the home of Marvin and Gail Smith.  Residents of the Santa Clarita Valley for over 20 years, they were drawn by their friends…and this quaint house, reminiscent of the decadent French chateaus of Europe.
The house is textured in a smooth plaster of ivory, accented by the stone entrance, done in a classic herringbone pattern.  This is echoed up the chimney, creating a striking visual display that draws the eye up.  Windows punctuate the façade, and accenting drama originates from the landscaping and dark tiled roof, as well as the charcoal front doors.  Oil rubbed lighting sits atop pilasters, while juniper topiaries, white rose bushes, and privet hedges bring an old world feel to the yard.  Bringing in California, robellini palms and lilies dot the landscape.
Inside, luxury abounds.  Within the entry, the eyes are drawn in many different directions, as there is so much to see.  Distressed maple flooring sets a warm tone, and moth orchids and roses billow out of vases.  Large candles sit atop a rococo table, beset with a volume of books and ornate mirrors.  A sitting room beckons guests to sit and chat.  Ornate chairs and a French settee proffer seating.  A large dressing mirror sits in the corner, and the majestic fireplace seats large urns, vases, and other statuary.
Atop the iron stairway, a small landing houses a distressed cabinet and matching mirror.  Dark urns overflow with large cascading blossoms, and on either side, more delights await.  In the master bedroom, heavy drapes of shimmering gold drip with large tassels.  Armchairs in a distressed shabby chic white finish are upholstered in stunning black brocade.  A large four-poster bed sits at the far end, and an open-beam ceiling completes the chateau feel.
 At the other end of the upstairs is Marvin’s manly escape.  A red leather couch is accented by the matching shades of the lamps.  A grand bookcase is surrounded by vegetation like succulents, one of the more fascinating tomes open to a particular page.  In the corner, various periodicals from around the world are set with ferns, an old trunk, and an antique camera and typewriter.
Entering the kitchen, one could easily imagine the ease in preparing an exquisite meal.  Pecan cabinets have hand, applied dark wash for accent; the same dark wash is the applied finish to the center island.  Granite countertops in a light beige create accent, inset with copper basins.  Hidden appliances include the large stove and two dishwashers for quick cleanup after entertaining.  A large stone hood, set with copper cookware and tureens, crowns the Viking stove and oven.
Down a small landing, one enters the family room.  In lieu of a coffee table, two leather-upholstered ottomans create a base for a serving tray set with various knick-knacks.  An upholstered white sofa proffers seating, as well as two wingback chairs in burlap.  An ornate grandfather clock heightens the visual and textural drama, and the contrast to the light walls draws the eyes toward the ceiling; again, natural beams add a distinctly European feel.
In the yard, a seating collection of black iron offers plenty of places to sit.  Statuary of children and cherubs adorn the area, decorated with various ferns and ivy, and even a few small pines.  A large birdcage makes a bold visual statement, while a ceiling fan cools the area.  Throw pillows mimic the lush greenery of the planters while adding further texture in racy zebra and other designs.  A fountain tinkles merrily in the corner, and you can imagine lounging poolside during those hot summer days, or decompressing in the spa with a glass of wine during a relaxing evening.  
Whether in the kitchen, sitting and conversing, or lounging in the yard, every corner of this house reflects the refined sophistication of its owners.  Treasures abound throughout reclaimed from local flea markets throughout Southern California.  This house is a testament to the hobbies of Gail and Marvin – a perfectly decorated home to enjoy any time!