The Marvin House; John C. Austin, architect, 1906. High on a knoll in South Pasadena sits a remarkable home that has been a local landmark for 111 years. Austin, architect of Los Angeles City Hall, the Shrine Auditorium and the Griffith Park Observatory, built this home for one of California's leading families. Not just a garden-variety Craftsman bungalow, this chalet-inspired home has unusually large rooms and includes separate guest quarters. Original character details abound: rich paneling, hardwood flooring and built-ins accent such features as the clinker-brick inglenook; grand, winding staircase; formal dining room with stained glass and paneled office alcove. Numerous balconies open the interior to the treetops and vistas across the Arroyo Seco. Terraced gardens caress the home and climb the hillside woodland. Here is a magical experience awaiting your inspection. South Pasadena schools. National Register eligible.