“Traditional architecture for the modern world”
~Fairfax & Sammons Architecture
Years ago, when I wasn’t working full time in the corporate world, I used to go with my girlfriends on home tours. There was one in Pasadena that has been held annually since 1948. The tour benefits music programs such as Los Angeles Philharmonic, local symphonic, cultural and educational programs.
I haven’t read their book but will need to add it to the list now that I’ve seen their website.
The often historic homes that I toured were really estates in the truest sense of the word. They were on nice sized pieces of land and often had “carriage houses” on their grounds.
A pattern began to emerge each year as I toured these homes, I invariably fell absolutely head over heals for the carriage house. There was something always charming and cozy about the smaller, utilitarian structure that had broad appeal for me.
Some time ago I happened upon a feature in Southern Accents about a Carriage House in New York’s Greenwich Village.

The details are what the firm is known for. The bar in the carriage house is tailored and masculine---very appealing.
The architects are a husband and wife team and the firm bore their last names, Fairfax & Sammons (Anne Fairfax and Richard Sammons).
The details were appealing and while not overly small, the rooms were comfortable and inviting.

I notice there's a lot of natural light in this carriage house. Architects have to be given some credit for capturing the best of the lot.
If you’d like to read more of what this firm has done and see the incredible pictures of their work visit HERE.
Gretchen said:
I am also a fan of carriage houses. Every time I went to the Pasadena design house I always prefered the scale and coziness of the carriage house. Big is not always better – I’d take a small well designed small space over a mansion!
Karen said:
Gretchen,
This is why we are such good friends, similar tastes! 🙂
Karen
Linda Coble said:
Karen, I always knew we had similar tastes. I, too, love carriage houses. I agree with Gretch that big isn’t always better. I’ve seen a few great articles over the years about lovely carriage house makeovers and I think it would be wonderful to live in one. Oh well, it’s always fun to dream!
Karen said:
Linda,
Let’s look for 3 in a row to retire to…what do you say? 🙂
Karen