Adamson House: Malibu’s Tile Masterpiece

Isn’t Malibu all about shiny new things? Flashy cars, big mansions, new breasts. The 'Bu has a well-deserved rep as the playground of celebs and the uber-rich. But less well-known are its historical landmarks, like the Adamson House - built in 1930.



A fabulous example of Spanish colonial revival architecture, the Adamson House boasts fountain-filled courtyards, arched windows, and last but certainly not least - exquisite ceramic tiles.

Once Mr. and Mrs. Adamson both passed away, the state of California had a cringe-inducing idea. In 1968, it purchased the house and planned to knock it down to make way for a parking lot. Thankfully, locals intervened.



The house’s colorfully detailed tiles come from the now defunct Malibu Potteries, which was a Rindge (Adamson) family business that only lasted six years from 1926-1932. The bathrooms feature the best examples – bright orange, blue, green, or red designs cover them from floor to ceiling.

There’s also a Persian-looking, rug-like decoration in a hallway built into the floor using tiles. It even has a fringe – now that’s attention to detail!



The house’s second-floor balcony provides stunning, Beach Boy music-invoking views of Surfrider Beach, the Malibu Pier, and the decorative fountains on the grounds (one’s star-shaped). If you have time, check out the fountain in the patio behind the house. See if you can spot the one upside-down tile.



Guided tours are the best and only way to see the inside of the house. These are not quickie in-and-out deals. Our guide Frank had encyclopedic knowledge of the house and used up the whole hour allocated.

Tours start in the garage adjoining the house, which is a sort of museum that includes pieces on Malibu’s history dating back to the Chumash Indians, who first inhabited the area. Available Wednesday thru Saturday from 11a to 3p, tours cost $5 per person. Click here for more info.



Post-tour, consider sauntering over to the nearby Malibu Lagoon, where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean. A true birders’ paradise, over 200 species of birds pass through here. For non-birders like me, the sparkling water, gentle sea breeze, and graceful flutter of birds overhead are enough to make it a great place to sit and zone out.