THE GAMBLE HOUSE - Charles and Henry Greene's masterpiece of the American Arts & Crafts movement photo

front door  — click for home page

Details and Joinery: A Craftsman’s Tour of The Gamble House

Details and Joinery: A Craftsman's Tour of The Gamble House (about this photo)

100 years ago a team of gifted craftsmen labored for 11 months to create The Gamble House, designed by architects Greene & Greene. Led by general contractor Peter Hall, and his brother, John, Scandinavian craftsman woodworkers, they turned, joined, carved, and rubbed 17 species of wood into the house and furnishings that today are recognized as one of the greatest achievements in American architecture and craftsmanship.

Contemporary woodworker, Jim Ipekjian, has studied the art and craft of the Greenes and the Halls for more than 20 years, and has an intimate knowledge of how their works were created. Mr. Ipekjian’s Details and Joinery tour, reveals for the first time how The Gamble House was crafted. He explains why woods were chosen, how they were joined, and the thinking and collaboration that led to the actual craftsmanship. On his tour he examines and explains details of the house and furniture and reveals the intracacies of wood, metal and art glass created especially for the House. Mr. Ipekjian shares his passion and wonder for the exquisite work created by these master architects and craftsmen.

The 2½ hour tour is open to the general public, and the cost is $75.00 per person. The group is limited to 8 people, and reservations are required. The schedule for these tours in 2008 is posted below.

Group Tours

Groups of 8 or less visitors may book their own private Details and Joinery tour. A reservation must be made in advance and the tour will be scheduled at a time and date convenient to both the House and the group. The fee for this private tour is $560 for a maximum of eight people.

For reservations and information call (626) 395-9783 or e-mail .

2008 Schedule

The following dates for public tours in 2008 may now be booked. Bookings for private groups may also be arranged.

  • October 22
  • November 19

Other tours: Regular Public Tour | Behind the Velvet Ropes

Contact Info

The Gamble House
4 Westmoreland Place
Pasadena CA 91103
tel. (626) 793-3334
Map + directions

The Gamble House is located in the 300 block of North Orange Grove Boulevard, three blocks north of Colorado Boulevard and near the intersection of the 134 and 210 freeways.

Public transit info is also available on the map + directions page.

Maps & Directions Google map


Behind the Velvet Ropes

Our “Behind the Velvet Ropes tour” invites you to visit parts of the House not usually accessible. On this 2½ hour tour, you’ll see exquisite craftsman details up close, with time to appreciate the ambience of the House. An ideal tour for visitors who want to see and learn more. $40.00 per person, reservations required.

TOP ^

The Gamble House ~ Charles and Henry Greene’s 1908 masterpiece of the American Arts and Crafts movement
4 Westmoreland Place ~ Pasadena, California 91103 ~ map + directions ~ tel. (626) 793-3334 ~

Web site designed by Sparklejet ~ contact