Robert Royston's Personal 1947 Usonian Style MCM Home in Mill Valley Offered for the First Time Ever

Legendary landscape architect's personal residence debuts at $2.995M after nearly 80 years of single-family ownership.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A singular piece of California mid-century modern history is coming to market for the first time since its completion in 1947. The personal residence of legendary landscape architect Robert Royston, designed in collaboration with architect Joseph Allen Stein, will be offered at $2,995,000. Lovingly held by the original family for nearly eight decades, the home represents a rare convergence of architecture, landscape, and art.

Why it matters

It is incredibly rare to see the personal residence of a figure of Royston's influence come to market in such original condition. The property stands as a remarkably intact example of postwar California modernism and the Royston garden would go on to influence a generation of modern residential landscapes.

The details

Set on approximately three-quarters of a mostly level acre in the heart of Mill Valley, the 2,731-square-foot residence captures sweeping views of Mount Tamalpais while dissolving the boundary between interior and exterior space. Stein's distinctive plan rotates the living spaces 45 degrees within a square footprint around a central fireplace, maximizing light, view corridors, and connection to the garden. Beyond the main residence, a 352-square-foot freestanding studio tucked beneath the expansive view deck served as Royston's personal workspace.

  • The home was completed in 1947.
  • The property has been held by the original family for nearly 80 years.

The players

Robert Royston

A legendary landscape architect whose personal residence is now being offered for the first time.

Joseph Allen Stein

The architect who collaborated with Royston on the design of the home.

Renee Adelmann

The Realtor and Owner of Bay Area Modern Real Estate who is listing the property.

Florence Swift

The artist who collaborated with Royston on the architectural screen wall design.

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What they’re saying

“This is not simply a home. It is a preserved chapter of California's modernist movement. To represent the personal residence of Robert Royston, held by the same family since 1947 and maintained in museum-quality condition, is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

— Renee Adelmann, Realtor and Owner of Bay Area Modern Real Estate (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

The property, located at 18 Laverne Avenue in Mill Valley, California, is offered at $2,995,000. Showings are available by private appointment.

The takeaway

This rare offering provides a unique opportunity to own a piece of California's mid-century modern architectural and landscape design history, showcasing the visionary work of Robert Royston and Joseph Allen Stein in a remarkably preserved state.