4181 Del Mar Avenue

On acreage that had previously been home to pasture and training facilities for his family's thoroughbred racehorses, architect Clifton Jones Jr. developed a tract of distinguished garden home duplexes. Named Cerritos Circle, its modernist post and beam designs were clearly influenced by the architect's studies at the USC School of Architecture and the formative Case Study house program. The single story Plan A model features a steeply pitched roof at its center, which shelters expansive open plan layouts under lofty beamed ceilings. The side by side 2 BD / 2 BA homes live more like custom single family residences than attached units. A central block wall divides them, with floor to ceiling sliding doors and glass walls that face entry courtyards in the front and separate fenced patio/garden areas at the back. These private patios expand the living spaces outward dramatically. Its east facing living area and back patio are bathed in morning light, with the west facing courtyard and dining room sunlit in the afternoon. Kitchens both include original cabinetry and are well organized with u-shaped layouts and large window walls at both north and south facings. Bedrooms feature spacious closets and each has its own en-suite bath. Both units include a carport as well as a private direct access garage with a laundry area. Well situated in Long Beach's desirable Los Cerritos neighborhood- known for its tree lined streets, historic homes, excellent school district, adjacent Dominguez Gap Wetlands, and an incredibly quiet, peaceful atmosphere. A vast array of options for shopping, restaurants, and breweries are all in close proximity. Centrally located with easy freeway access for commutes to both Los Angeles and Orange County, and less than 1.5 miles from a metro station.