An Architectural Legacy Rooted in
Beauty and Heritage
Julia Morgan (photo: Special Collections and Archives, California Polytechnic State University)
Julia Morgan
(January 20,1872 – February 2,1957)
Julia Morgan was an American architect, the first woman to be admitted to the architecture program at l’École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, a graduate of University of California, Berkeley and the first woman architect licensed in California. In 1902, she returned to San Francisco and opened her own office, from which she helped pioneer, along with her friend and former teacher, Bernard Maybeck, a distintive Northern California brand of Arts and Crafts homes, of which Redwood Grove is an example. Julia Morgan’s original design plans are available at Redwood Grove.
In 1926, San Francisco hotel heiress Margaret Stewart entrusted the eminent architect Julia Morgan with the creation of a secluded country estate—now known as Julia Morgan Redwood Grove. Conceived as part of a 1,290-acre luxury resort envisioned by the Benbow family, the estate was designed as a harmonious sanctuary where architecture and nature coexist in elegant balance.
A Commision of Distinction
California’s First Lady of Architecture
“Architecture should speak of its time and place, yet yearn for timelessness.”
— Julia Morgan
Julia Morgan, celebrated as California’s first licensed female architect, gained national acclaim through her early commissions—including the reconstruction of The Fairmont Hotel after the 1906 earthquake and several buildings for the University of California, Berkeley and Mills College.
Her work on Hearst Castle and the nearby Hacienda at San Simeon solidified her reputation as one of America’s most visionary architects.
Julia Morgan and William Hearst during the construction of Hearst Castle (photo: Irvin Willat, 1926 Courtesty of Marc Wanamaker/Bison Archives)
St. Johns Presbyterian Church (photo: Environmental Design Archives, UC Berkeley)
A Masterwork Restored
Today, Julia Morgan Redwood Grove has been exquisitely restored to reflect Julia Morgan’s original vision. Her hallmark details—carved stags, rosettes, birds, and leaves—grace the estate, complemented by exposed old-growth redwood beams and earth-toned finishes. Every detail speaks to Morgan’s philosophy of craftsmanship, nature, and understated elegance. A private collection of fine art and period antiques further enhances the estate’s historic ambiance.
The Sun Room, Julia Morgan Redwood Grove, Garberville, CA
The Map Room, Julia Morgan Redwood Grove, Garberville, CA
The Great Room, Julia Morgan Redwood Grove, Garberville, CA
Visonaries Behind The Restoration
In 2000, stewards Allison Huegel and Jim Sergi embarked on a faithful restoration of Redwood Grove. With architect Duncan McLeod and builder Dennis DelBiaggio, and the skilled hands of local artisans, the team worked over four years to bring Morgan’s vision to life—preserving the estate’s integrity and soul.
In 2021, the legacy was graciously passed to Greg and Tanya Musgrave, whose personal connection to the property began with a single tour and culminated in their wedding under the redwoods. Today, they continue to protect and elevate the spirit of this extraordinary estate for generations to come.