Historic Project: The Canfield-Wright House

The Canfield-Wright House is an historic restoration that brings Davidson Communities immense pride. Originally built in 1910 , the century old house had seen better days. In 2003 it was purchased with the intent of tearing it down and replacing it with a more modern structure. A public outcry arose from Del Mar citizens seeking to preserve a piece of the community’s unique history. After many heated discussions at City Council and Design Review Board meetings, a happy fate for the house was in serious doubt. At a critical moment, Bill Davidson, who lived across the street, saved it from the wrecking ball by buying the property from the new owner. He subsequently presented his own development plans, which were judged to be in compliance with historic-preservation guidelines.

After four years of intensive work, careful restoration, and architecturally sensitive additions, the renovation of the house on Avenida Primavera, originally built by Charles A. Canfield, was finally completed. Known alternately as the Canfield-Wright House, Wrightland, and The Pink Lady, this Spanish Revival house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and reflects the rich history of Del Mar over the past 100 years.