Background

Theophilus Allen House: A Palo Alto Landmark

Discover Palo Alto's architectural gem: The Theophilus Allen House, a landmark of Craftsman design and early 20th-century history.

5

The Theophilus Allen House, built in 1905, is a stunning example of American Craftsman architecture in Palo Alto's University South neighborhood. Designed by Alfred W. Smith, this historic residence is known for its intricate woodwork, shingle siding, and unique tower, reflecting the Arts and Crafts movement.

A brief summary to Theophilus Allen House

  • 601 Melville Ave, Palo Alto, University South, California, 94301, US

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Explore the surrounding University South neighborhood for additional historical landmarks.
  • Check local resources for any available guided tours or history talks about the area.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Palo Alto Caltrain Station, exit the station and head southwest on University Avenue. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with El Camino Real. Turn left onto El Camino Real and walk for about 0.5 miles. Then, turn right onto Melville Avenue. The Theophilus Allen House will be on your left at 601 Melville Ave.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Theophilus Allen House from downtown Palo Alto, take the Stanford Marguerite Shuttle (Line D) towards Stanford University. Get off at the stop at El Camino Real and Melville Avenue. Walk east on Melville Avenue for about 0.1 miles, and the Theophilus Allen House will be on your right at 601 Melville Ave. The Stanford Marguerite Shuttle is free.

Unlock the Best of Theophilus Allen House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Theophilus Allen House

The Theophilus Allen House, located at 601 Melville Avenue in Palo Alto, California, stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. Built in 1905 for Theophilus Allen, a prominent figure and founder of the Palo Alto Christian Science Church, the house exemplifies the American Craftsman style. The house is one of two in Palo Alto protected from demolition. Designed by Oakland architect Alfred W. Smith and constructed by Gustav Laumeister, a leading builder of Craftsman houses, the residence showcases fine wood craftsmanship and artistic use of structural elements. The exterior features dark wood shingles, a chalet-style front gable, and diamond-paned leaded glass windows, integrating Swiss, Japanese, and English Tudor influences. Inside, the house boasts redwood paneling, beamed ceilings, and built-in furniture. The Theophilus Allen House is located one block from Palo Alto's historic Professorville district, where many early Stanford professors built homes in the Craftsman style. The house was valued at $30,000 by 1910. Although the house is not typically open for interior tours, its exterior and surrounding landscape offer a glimpse into the past.

Popular Experiences near Theophilus Allen House

Popular Hotels near Theophilus Allen House

Select Currency