The Intriguing Story of the Gamble House: Who Was It Built For?

The Gamble House, located in Pasadena, California, is a stunning example of the Stick Style architecture that gained popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. Its unique blend of Japanese and American architectural elements has captured the attention of many, leaving many to wonder, who was the Gamble House built for? In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of the Gamble House, exploring the life of its original inhabitants and the reasons behind its construction.

I. The Gamble Family

The Gamble House was built for the Gamble family, a prominent business family in the early 1900s. The family, led by David Gamble, was the owner of Procter & Gamble, a company that produced soap, candles, and other household products. David and his wife, Louise, were both interested in the arts and architecture, which would play a significant role in the design and construction of their new home.

II. The Architectural Design

The Gamble House was designed by the renowned architect Myron Hunt, who was influenced by the Japanese architecture he had seen during his travels. Hunt combined traditional Japanese elements, such as the sliding doors and lanterns, with American architectural styles to create a unique and harmonious design. The Gamble House's Stick Style features, including the exposed rafters and vertical wood shingles, were also a nod to the American Craftsman movement.

III. The Construction Process

The construction of the Gamble House began in 1908 and was completed in 1912. The project required a skilled workforce and a considerable amount of resources. The Gamble family was committed to ensuring that their new home was a reflection of their values and interests, and they were willing to invest in the best possible materials and craftsmanship.

IV. The Gamble Family's Life at the House

The Gamble family lived in the Gamble House from 1912 until 1942, when they sold the property. During their time there, the house became a hub of cultural and social activity. The Gamble family was known for hosting lavish parties and gatherings, and the Gamble House was often filled with artists, writers, and other cultural figures.

V. The Gamble House Today

Today, the Gamble House is a National Historic Landmark and is managed by the Pasadena Museum of History. It is open to the public for tours, and visitors can learn about the history of the Gamble family and the architectural significance of the house.

VI. The Mystery of the Gamble House

Despite the wealth and influence of the Gamble family, there are still many mysteries surrounding the Gamble House. One of the most intriguing questions is, who was the Gamble House built for? While we know that it was built for the Gamble family, there are numerous theories and speculations about the reasons behind their decision to commission such a unique and unconventional home.

1. Why did the Gamble family choose to build a home in the Stick Style architecture?

The Gamble family was interested in the arts and architecture, and they were particularly fascinated by Japanese design. Myron Hunt's Stick Style design was a perfect blend of their interests, which allowed them to create a home that was both unique and harmonious.

2. How did the Gamble family finance the construction of the Gamble House?

The Gamble family was one of the wealthiest families in the country at the time, and they had the financial means to invest in their new home. The construction process required a considerable amount of resources, but the Gamble family was willing to invest in the best possible materials and craftsmanship.

3. What was the significance of the Gamble House during the early 20th century?

The Gamble House was a testament to the growing interest in Japanese and American architectural styles during the early 20th century. It was a groundbreaking design that influenced future generations of architects and designers.

4. How did the Gamble family live in the Gamble House?

The Gamble family lived in the Gamble House from 1912 until 1942, hosting parties and gatherings that attracted artists, writers, and other cultural figures. The house was a hub of social and cultural activity during this time.

5. Why did the Gamble family sell the Gamble House in 1942?

The Gamble family sold the Gamble House in 1942 due to financial difficulties. The company was struggling, and they needed to sell off some of their assets to stay afloat. The sale of the Gamble House was a difficult decision for the family, but it was necessary for their survival.

The Gamble House remains a captivating symbol of the architectural and cultural history of the early 20th century. Its unique design, rich history, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding its construction continue to spark the curiosity of many. As we learn more about the Gamble family and the Gamble House, we gain a deeper understanding of the architectural trends and cultural shifts that shaped the United States during this pivotal period in history.