Historic Palo Alto For Sale

It’s not often that a historic house on almost an acre become available in the downtown Crescent Park neighborhood, but it has in the form of the Squire House, located at 900 University Avenue, just blocks from downtown. So far, after 138 days on the market, this 6300 square foot majestic mansion has had no takers; not surprising given the price tag, the fact that any repairs and remodeling mean jumping through hoops, and that it sits on University Avenue, with all its attendant traffic. Built in 1905 for the John Adams Squire family, the home was built in the Classical Revival style and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The home, also known at Palo Alto’s “White House,” is very regal looking, set back off the street and surrounded by locked iron gates with towering palm trees acting as sentries. Designed by renowned architect T. Paterson Ross, there are four large columns gracing the front of the house, while a porte cochere flanks the right, leading to the rear entrance. Built in 1905, this four-level home did not always look so grand. It fell into disrepair in the late sixties and was slated for demolition, with the lot destined to be turned into four ranch-style homes. Strong wills and a lot of fundraising saved the home, and although it has been sold to private citizens since that time, the city owns an easement for the façade of the house, preventing changes and alterations from being made. To make up for this restriction, and to preserve the home in total, there are tax breaks given to any future Squire House owner who helps to maintain its historic character.

The home has been updated and brought into modern times in many respects, but the old world charm still exists throughout, with beautiful wood, grand staircases, and stained glass. In addition there is a guest house and a pool surrounded by well-manicured grounds. Originally listed at $14,750,000, it has been reduced 15% to $12,500,000.

Just around the corner is another of Palo Alto’s well-tended antiques of similar size. 567 Hale is a 4/4 of 5713 square feet in the Early Classic Revival style. It’s not quite as grandiose and imposing as the Squire House, sitting on a third of an acre on a quiet street right off of University Avenue, but it is also designated an historic property. The home boasts high ceilings, wood floors, built-in buffet in the dining room, some very unique windows, and a heavy wide wodden staircase. The kitchen and baths have been modernized, but one still has a claw-foot tub. There is a light and bright sun porch, perfect for that morning coffee and paper and a nice porch off the back. Originally listed in April at $8,500,000 it can be had for the mere price of $7,750,000.