Although we love our old Reno Victorians and Craftsman Bungalows, it’s also fun to include a more modern offering in our annual slate of homes. In past years, the Aspen Glen and Sunnyvale homes were immensely popular with our attendees. And at over 50 years old, this incredible Mid-Century Modern home tucked away just south of Huffaker Lane is hardly a youngster. Built on 2.38 acres on what was once the Ladino Dairy Farm by noted architect Peter Wilday, it presents a somewhat mysterious face upon approach, due to the dark, sloping roof with rafter tails that almost hug the ground. Stone pillars appear to top the roof. The entrance is to the side, so as not to detract from the impact when approaching the home.
The style of this home can best be described as Organic Modern, a term used where nature merges with contemporary design, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere in harmony with the surrounding environment. This home exemplifies this, with its liberal use of wood and stone.
The home’s architect, Wilday, has been practicing architecture in Northern Nevada for over 40 years, designing and building over 100 unique homes here, as well as major casino resort properties, such as the Peppermill and Atlantis.
Dr. Harry B. Gilbert, longtime Reno resident and practicing radiologist, was an early owner of this property. He died in 1978 while walking the ditch near his property. The home was later sold to Dr. Larry W. Gardner, a dermatologist and later to Norman Nash. Interestingly, for a brief period, it was even owned by Kelly Rae, one of the owners of the Aspen Glen property from our 2017 tour. The home seems to attract those in the medical field as the current owners are Dr. Christopher and Linda Demers, who purchased the home in 2011. Dr. Demers is a neurosurgeon. Linda owns a home furnishings shop, LCD Modern, in the Moana West Shopping Center.
The Demers made upgrades to the home reflecting their own tastes, but were careful to retain the mid-century feel to the home. When walking in, you are immediately taken by the high wood ceiling slanting toward the front of the home, crossed by curved beams. There is a huge rock fireplace and a long bank of the same rock opposite, facing the front of the home. Recessed windows run all along the front. The kitchen is lovely and spacious, with two walls of cabinets and an attractive tile backsplash. It is full of light with glass doors leading out to the patio area and an enormous pool. There is interesting artwork throughout, though not so much as to detract from the art of the home’s design.
The home sits far back on the very large lot. It is beautifully landscaped with an expansive lawn and beds of native plants. Approaching it, the appearance draws you in, making you wonder what you will find inside. You will not be disappointed.