A Cliff May Midcentury With Scandinavian Vibes Seeks $1.55M

Dating back to 1953, the updated Long Beach home sports a monochromatic interior warmed by natural wood accents.
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Location: 3356 Lees Avenue, Long Beach, California

Price: $1,550,000

Architect: Cliff May

Year Built: 1953

Footprint: 1,568 square feet (three bedrooms, two baths)

Lot Size: 0.14 acres

From the Agent: "This Cliff May–designed Rancho Estates home has been creatively expanded and highly upgraded. It’s situated on a larger than typical lot in a quiet interior location of the tract. A concrete block wall and a planter with a screen of olive trees make for an attractive street presence. An uncommonly spacious and newer-built two-car garage has been placed at the front of the 1,568-square-foot home, freeing up the original detached garage as an additional nearly 400 SF studio/office (which has not been not included in the square footage measure.) Beyond the wall and gate, May’s idealized version of the California ranch home flourishes. The home is located in close proximity to the spectacular 800-acre El Dorado Park and nature preserve, as well as to the San Gabriel River path and Seal Beach."

In addition to the towering tree in the front, mature landscaping borders the three remaining sides, enhancing the property’s privacy.

In addition to the towering tree in the front, mature landscaping borders the three remaining sides, enhancing the property’s privacy.

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Concrete flooring connects the living areas, all of which are bathed in sunshine thanks to skylights, glass doors, and clerestory windows. 

Concrete flooring connects the living areas, all of which are bathed in sunshine thanks to skylights, glass doors, and clerestory windows. 

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"Signature window walls and patio doors seamlessly connect the indoors and out," notes the agent. The post-and-beam ceiling is painted a crisp shade of white.

"Signature window walls and patio doors seamlessly connect the indoors and out," notes the agent. The post-and-beam ceiling is painted a crisp shade of white.

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The home’s two bathrooms have been updated with sleek contemporary finishes.

The home’s two bathrooms have been updated with sleek contemporary finishes.

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A courtyard between the main house and the detached studio provides ample space for outdoor entertaining.

A courtyard between the main house and the detached studio provides ample space for outdoor entertaining.

While the 400-square-foot studio is currently used as a guesthouse, it can easily double as an office or workout area.

While the 400-square-foot studio is currently used as a guesthouse, it can easily double as an office or workout area.

Dwell Staff
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