Arcadia News — award winning neighborhood news since 1993
November 2011
November 2011, page 66

HOME NAME: Spanish Colonial Splendor OWNER: Paige Bailey INTERIOR DESIGN: Paige Bailey and Associates, Inc ARCHITECT: Unknown, as listed in the Arcadia Historic Building Survey SQUARE FOOTAGE: 6,000 YEAR BUILT: circa 1930 RECONSTRUCTION: 1990 6

A ccording to the Arcadia Historic Building Survey, this Spanish Colonial Revival was originally built sometime in the early 1930s by local businessman Cyril Gilbert, who lived there until his passing in 1957. The home was then transferred to Frank Henry Gilbert and Elbert Roy Gilbert, who each owned a half interest in the property. In 1967 Frank Gilbert married Amanda Blake (aka “Miss Kitty,” Proprietor of the Long Branch Saloon in the 60s television series Gunsmoke). During this time, she kept many “pets” including cheetahs and lions on site. Today, Paige Bailey keeps far more domesticated fare: a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Labrador Retriever. She has lovingly cared for her home in a way that clearly translates her natural talent as an interior designer. The décor is exceptional, with consideration given to every inch of the home. No detail is forgotten and yet the home isn’t ostentatious; it’s flawless. Structurally, the brick wall exterior is covered in stucco, sitting on a rectangular concrete foundation. According to Paige, the last significant remodel was completed over ten years ago. Outside highlights include arched windows, iron balconies and awnings. The herringbone pattern on the Moreno-tiled entryway leads to the front door, delicately patterned with stained glass. Flowers agreeably line the outside, while the use of color on the inside redefi nes each room. The backyard is seemingly made for entertaining, and the grounds rival those of any local resort. Even Camelback Mountain seems to nod in approval of this ornate treasure. An endless source of inspiration, the property’s true power is the imprint left on your imagination. Probably every Arcadian has passed this estate at some point and wondered what it would be like to walk the grounds. Nearly two acres of lush green grass and mature landscaping set the stage for this six-thousand square-foot home with its red tile roof and white cream façade. At any point, one might expect to hear “Cut!” as a film director captures that final scene. The Bailey residence will continue to redefine the collective imagination of Arcadia for generations to come. H I S T O R I C A R C A D I A B U I L T c . 1 9 3 0 Spanish Spanish colonial colonial Splendor Splendor Each home that appears in our Arcadia Home publications has one unique element we can point to for the reason why we chose one property over another. Th is historic home has a couple intriguing historic components (cheetahs and apes once lived in the house – really?), but it’s the current occupant’s passion for the home and its historic significance that make this one such a perfect selection. E d i t o r ’ s update 7