By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

On Jan. 31, Pasadena Showcase House of Design opened the doors of the prestigious Bauer Estate & Gardens for the 60th annual Showcase House. The evening was the Empty House event, which gives media, supporters and others the chance to see the estate prior to its redecoration by professional designers. The designers who will work on the Showcase House specialize in a variety of mediums including architecture, engineering and graphic design. 

Just about every room of the Showcase House will experience a redesign. For example, Rachel Duarte of Rachel Duarte Design Studio has the daunting task of renovating the kitchen. The redesign will incorporate new textures in cabinetry and fixtures. 

The size of the Bauer Estate & Gardens demands the use of an array of fabrics and paint colors. One room that garnered interest by patrons was the primary suite (not to be confused with the Gentleman’s and Lady’s Retreat). For Empty House, the suite was stripped bare giving guests the opportunity to see renderings of what designers Plaster & Patina have in store for the rooms.

The guest suite is being reimagined by Billman Designs. Karen Billman, an interior designer of residential and commercial spaces, said the goal was to introduce a palette of bright color that is “happy.”

“I want guests to feel happy when staying here,” she said. For example, she is incorporating the green from the drapes into green tiles for the ensuite that she hopes will add to the happy, yet comforting, space.

As lovely as the estate is, it is obvious that a redesign was necessary. In addition to a peeling ceiling and, in some cases peeling walls, insulation in the guest bathroom dates back decades. It consists of shredded paper – something Billman will be addressing.

“I’m replacing that,” she said with a definite tone.

The Bauer Estate & Gardens is more than 15,000 square feet, spread over five acres. The 1928 Monterey colonial estate was built by Peter Hall of Gamble House fame for Harry Bauer (CEO of Southern California Edison) and his wife Alice (board chair of the Los Angeles County Arboretum). It encompasses 18 major rooms (10 with wood-burning fireplaces) and the transformation of these spaces is highly anticipated.

Tickets for Showcase House are on sale now and vary from $38 to $75 per person. The Showcase House will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays. For more information, visit www.pasadenashowcase.org.