Classic Victorian Meets Country Quaint

by Joshua Price

Home Facts:

Built in 1986, 4,600 sq. ft.
3 BR, 3 ½ BA
Guest area has 1 BR + 1 BA
15,300 sq ft. lot size

Set back in remote areas of Santa Clarita, beautiful homes lie tucked away waiting to be discovered.  In Newhall, we come to the home of Don and Denise Cruikshank.  Nestled in their private, quiet neighborhood, their Victorian-styled home is comfortably situated among stately oak trees and flowerbeds of fragrant jasmine.
Upon entering the home, you see that the nostalgia of the old-world past has been brought to new life within.  Oak flooring spreads throughout, dotted here and there with unique antiques.  A combination console and umbrella stand sits on one side of the hallway, while a quaint bench sits opposite.  
To the right of the entry, a sitting area awaits.  Splashed with an accent of red, a beautiful baby grand piano sits comfortably in the bay window.  Matching red couches offer a cozy sitting space for conversation, while an English antique bookshelf, converted for the mantle, adds elegance, refinement, and a touch of traditional style.  You may recognize the fireplace, as it served as a backdrop for The Magazine of Santa Clarita’s first issue-Mistletoe and Holly some 20 years ago.  The home was also used twice in Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital’s Holiday Home Tour (1988, 2004).
Enter the formal dine.  Custom murals depict a quaint pastoral scene, while the motif of cows abounds throughout.  An antique stove sits in the corner, beckoning to a simpler time.  Red gingham curtains sit daintily upon the windows, as the china peaks through its cabinet.
Walk through a door in the dining room, and their sits the couple’s kitchen.  As the heart of any home, it offers warmth and comfort – literally!  Again, gingham curtains accent the windows, but the focal point is a large pot belly stove, sitting upon a brick hearth.  Oak cabinets are met by pale granite, while coiffed ceilings are inset with a striped pattern and contrasting white molding.  A hanging pot rack over the center island offers easy access to cooking utensils while preparing family meals, an easy task in such a spacious kitchen!
Of course, the kitchen blends seamlessly with the family room, creating a “great room.”  In the family room, floor-to-ceiling brick and cabinetry creating a stunning display for books and gadgets, while a large family portrait hangs above the hearth.  Delicate sage bedecks the couch, while red permeates the lounge chair in the corner.  Overhead lighting is provided by two large fans to cool during summer parties.
Upstairs, the master bedroom offers quiet respite from the daily hustle and bustle.  Sage walls offer a subtle contrast to the creamy mocha of the rest of the room.  This is only further heightened by the red-and-white patterned bedspread and matching pillows. A separate balcony and landing offer access to not only the guest quarters, but also to a wonderful view of the backyard.
With the abundant space outdoors, it is clear that there’s plenty of room to entertain.  Chaise lounges provide space to relax and take in the sun, while a separate seating area offer a place for entertaining guests and hosting poker parties and cigar nights.  And, of course, you can simply lounge by the beautiful pool and spa, enjoying Santa Clarita’s warm summer days and cool summer eves.  
Whether you’re indoors or out, there’s no doubt the feeling of warmth and comfort is abundant throughout, making it the perfect place to call home!