A stunning example of mid-20th century California modernist architecture has emerged on the Long Beach real estate market, offering buyers a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. The Drake House, designed by renowned architect Paul Tay as one of his earliest commissions, is currently listed for $1,698,000 and represents a remarkable preservation of modernist design principles.
Paul Tay, a significant figure in California modernist architecture, created some of his most important work in Long Beach during the mid-20th century while living and working at a Crest Drive compound. The Drake House on Lemon Avenue marked the beginning of his illustrious career and showcases the deceptive simplicity and vigor that would become hallmarks of his design philosophy. At 1,885 square feet, the home demonstrates Tay's mastery of long, low, well-lit spaces that have proven both timeless and functional.
What makes this property particularly remarkable is how well the original architectural elements have survived over the decades. Most of Tay's original design features remain intact, while other elements have been seamlessly improved or replaced by subsequent owners who clearly understood and respected the home's architectural significance. This careful stewardship ensures that potential buyers are acquiring an authentic piece of modernist history rather than a heavily altered interpretation.
The current owners demonstrated exceptional sensitivity to the home's architectural heritage when they enlisted Interstices Architecture to make thoughtful updates and expansions. The architects skillfully expanded the home slightly while reconfiguring the garage to create space for a front garden and a more generous entrance area. Crucially, they preserved Tay's original entryway pergola and a mature dracaena draco tree, both of which cast distinctive and dramatic shadows across the home during late afternoon hours.
One of the most successful additions is a new studio-gallery space located near the skylit entrance. This addition perfectly captures the modernist spirit while employing contemporary construction techniques. The space benefits from a striking retractable three-panel glass pocket door topped with a row of clerestory windows that flood the area with natural light while maintaining the clean lines characteristic of modernist design.
Throughout the home, Paul Tay's sophisticated understanding of color and materials is evident in the creative tile and brickwork that has been carefully preserved and integrated with new elements. The original Roman brick fireplace remains a focal point in the open-plan living room, creating a warm gathering space that exemplifies mid-century modern living. In the adjacent kitchen, Tay's distinctive tiled backsplash has been expertly wrapped around new cabinetry, creating a seamless blend of original and contemporary elements.
The home's relationship with its natural surroundings reflects another key principle of modernist architecture. South-facing windows throughout the house look out onto the substantial 6,500 square foot lot, which features a patio, swimming pool, and mature landscaping including bamboo and fig trees. This indoor-outdoor connection was revolutionary for its time and remains highly desirable today.
The property offers three bedrooms and three bathrooms, providing comfortable living spaces while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that defines modernist design. Each room benefits from the abundant natural light and thoughtful proportions that make Tay's architecture feel both grand and intimate. For architecture enthusiasts and those seeking a unique piece of California's design heritage, the Drake House represents a rare opportunity to own a meticulously preserved example of mid-century modernist excellence.
