Activate map
Specialties
Our unique and beautiful botanical garden features a water-wise garden alongside the historical residence of Sam Maloof, a famed woodworker whose mission was to promote and enable other artists to do what they love.
The botanical garden and his treasured house are available to the public, with The Foundation seeking to inspire woodworkers, artists, craftspeople, and collectors by leading educational tours, exhibits, and programs.
We look forward to seeing you for our Centennial events, which begin January 2016 and celebrate what would be Sam Maloof’s 100th birthday. There will be a unique and special event held each month of 2016 so be sure to check out our calendar to join!
History
Established in 1994.
Sam Maloof (1916 – 2009) was one of the foremost woodworkers of his time.
In 1990, the Sam Maloof residence and woodshop were deemed eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Today the relocated residence is open as a living museum. Once again, each room is filled with treasures that give this unique home its spirit.
The Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation, established in 1994, is committed to creating a pre-eminent center that preserves the Maloof’s legacy and fosters the arts and crafts movement. The work of the Foundation recognizes the ever increasing role of the crafts in our world of machine-made products — the reconnecting of human values with natural forms and materials.
A principal responsibility of the Foundation is protection and conservation of the art, furnishings, structures and grounds entrusted to it. The residence itself is one of the most treasured parts of the collection.
Meet the Business Owner
Sam M.
Business Owner
The story of Sam Maloof (1916 – 2009) is the quintessential story of a first generation American, born to immigrant parents who struggled to support their large family. From this inauspicious beginning, through ceaseless dedication to his craft voicing singular artistic vision, Sam not only earned a living doing what he loved best, woodworking, he found fame and fortune as the first craftsman awarded the prestigious MacArthur Foundation «Genius» Fellowship.
His vision exemplifies the innovation and creativity of mid-20th century California arts and crafts. Maloof furniture, including iconic rocking chairs enjoyed by U.S. presidents and everyday admirers, is represented in the permanent collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian and other public and private art collections.
Sam was a man who lived and worked with passion. He found success in love and business and surrounded himself with an equally passionate team.