A Pasadena gem with more than a century of architectural and cultural history has just arrived on the market. Fashion designer Richard Tyler and his wife, Lisa Trafficante, are parting with their Italian Renaissance Revival estate—an extraordinary residence listed for $12.5 million.
A Villa With Deep California Roots
Originally designed in the early 1900s by noted architect Reginald Davis Johnson, the residence has long been a fixture in Pasadena real estate. Known as “Villa Arno,” the estate was named by the wife of chemist and scholar Arno Behr, one of its earliest prominent owners. Over the years, the property passed through the hands of significant figures, from a 1930s interior designer to the president of the Southern California Gas Company and artist Earle Hugens.
In 1998, Tyler acquired the property in a rare exchange—trading his Hollywood Hills mansion for this stately Pasadena home. Now, after more than two decades of ownership, the villa is ready for its next chapter, represented by George Penner of Compass and Michelle Trafficante of Ashby & Graff.
Architectural Grandeur Meets Modern Comfort
Set on about one acre, the property blends Old World craftsmanship with contemporary convenience. The five-bedroom, five-bath main residence is joined by a one-bedroom, one-bath guesthouse, offering both privacy and hospitality.
Visitors are welcomed by a black-and-white tiled entrance gallery that flows into elegant living spaces. The formal living room exudes restraint, while the mint-green fireside library—with its arched Palladian windows—opens directly onto the lush gardens. Period details, such as wood-paneled walls, high ceilings, and carved fireplaces, reinforce the home’s historic character.
Balancing these vintage touches, the kitchen embraces a modern aesthetic with stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, and a butcher-block island that anchors the room.
Luxurious Bedrooms and Guest Quarters
The upstairs primary suite offers both sophistication and comfort. Highlights include a fireplace-warmed bedroom, a dressing room, sunroom, walk-through closet, and a spa-inspired bath. Two additional ensuite bedrooms complete the upper level, while two more guest rooms sit on the ground floor.
The separate guesthouse extends the property’s livability with its own kitchen, bedroom, and a cozy fireplace in the living area—perfect for visitors or extended stays.
Mediterranean Lifestyle in Pasadena
Outdoors, the villa channels an unmistakable Italian ambiance. The swimmer’s pool is lined with cabanas and loungers reminiscent of the Riviera, while the alfresco dining area, complete with a grill and fireplace, invites gatherings under the California sky. Landscaped gardens include a private rose retreat, water features, and shaded pathways that evoke the timeless charm of European estates.
“This estate is a cultural landmark as much as it is a home,” the listing team notes, pointing to its designation as a Cultural Heritage Landmark in 1977. With the potential for inclusion in the California Register of Historical Resources and the National Register of Historic Places, the villa represents a rare fusion of architecture, history, and lifestyle.
A Storied Pasadena Landmark for Today’s Market
In a city celebrated for its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene, this property stands out not only for its Italian Renaissance Revival design but also for its remarkable provenance. For buyers seeking Pasadena homes for sale with both elegance and legacy, Richard Tyler’s residence offers an unmatched opportunity.