Introduction to the Bixby Ranch House
The Bixby Ranch House is one of Long Beach’s oldest private homes, originally built between 1887 and 1890. It stands as a rare example of turn-of-the-century architecture in Southern California. The home was commissioned by George H. Bixby, a son of Long Beach’s founding family. Designed by renowned English architects Ernest and Almeric Coxhead, the property includes eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms. 11 La Linda Drive, Long Beach, is listed for $5,700,000 by Blake Nicolai at RE/MAX.
tags from The shingled and brick exterior of the Bixby Ranch House. Image via Zillow.
Architectural Significance
Preservation of Timeless Elegance
A preservation of timeless elegance, the Bixby Ranch House is one of Long Beach’s oldest private homes. The original architectural details have been meticulously preserved.
The original architectural details have been meticulously preserved. Image via Zillow.
The British Coxhead brothers became known in the late 19th-century for their Arts and Crafts architecture and shingled churches. They modified European design traditions to suit California’s unique environment. The Bixby Ranch House originally functioned as the Bixby family’s center for ranching and real estate ventures. It remains one of the Coxhead’s most significant commissions in the region.
Unique Design Elements
The construction and landscaping is reminiscent of a late 1900s church. Image via Zillow.
This property is a rare, striking example of Shingle Style residential architecture. The exterior is entirely clad in hand-laid cedar shingles, with rooflines that flare outward at the eaves. Leaded glass bay windows punctuate the facade, while the home’s three-story massing gives it a distinct presence and stunning curb appeal.
Interior Features
Main Living Areas
The main living areas are arranged around a central, double-height entry hall. The formal living and family rooms both include oversized leaded glass bay windows and large fireplaces. Original wood paneling and detailed millwork remain throughout. Natural light moves through the rooms from multiple angles, emphasizing the home’s thoughtful craftsmanship.
The living space with a grand fireplace and millwork. Image via Zillow.
Iconic Billiard Room
The iconic billiard room is a quintessential space within the historic home. It stands out with quarter-sawn White Oak coffered ceilings, custom cabinetry, and a fireplace framed in Emerald Green marble. Period light fixtures have been retained and updated for modern use, preserving the room’s original character while integrating current amenities.
The iconic billiard room with White Oak coffered ceilings. Image via Zillow.
Formal Dining Room
The dining room occupies a prominent position in the home, defined by a wall of leaded glass windows overlooking the grounds. The space still holds its original solid White Oak dining table. Views extend to a mature Magnolia tree, one of the oldest botanical features on the property, establishing a connection between the interior and the exterior. This is one example of how Southern California living influenced the construction of the home.
The formal dining room with the original solid White Oak dining table. Image via Zillow.
Updates and Restoration
Recent restoration work has resulted in both structural and cosmetic upgrades. Every window and door has been refurbished, while the exterior cedar shingles and roofing were replaced according to the original specifications. Updates include a six-zone HVAC system, a comprehensive electrical overhaul, and exterior lighting controlled by discrete photo sensors, ensuring minimal visual disruption to the facade.
The updated kitchen with contemporary amenities. Image via Zillow.
Location and Privacy
Positioned within the gated La Linda Drive community, the property offers an unparalleled level of privacy. There are only 35 homes within the prestigious enclave. The Bixby Ranch House remains one of Southern California’s few remaining late-19th-century residences, offering a peek into a unique period in the region’s history.
The home is a rare example of Arts and Crafts architecture in Long Beach. Image via Zillow.
Conclusion
The Bixby Ranch House is a rare and significant piece of Long Beach’s history, offering a glimpse into the region’s architectural past. With its meticulously preserved original details and thoughtful updates, this property is a true treasure for those who appreciate historic homes.
FAQs
- Q: How old is the Bixby Ranch House?
A: The Bixby Ranch House was originally built between 1887 and 1890. - Q: Who designed the Bixby Ranch House?
A: The Bixby Ranch House was designed by renowned English architects Ernest and Almeric Coxhead. - Q: How many bedrooms and bathrooms does the property have?
A: The property includes eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms. - Q: What is the listing price of the Bixby Ranch House?
A: The Bixby Ranch House is listed for $5,700,000. - Q: Where is the Bixby Ranch House located?
A: The Bixby Ranch House is located at 11 La Linda Drive, Long Beach, CA 90807.
