1832 Mariposal Drive

1832 Marisol Drive

The Marisol Midcentury Modern 

World War II brought an end to the economic hardships of the Great Depression, but it left deep scars of its own. One of those tragedies touched Betty Jane Daly, whose first husband was killed in action when his plane was shot down over Hamburg, Germany in 1944. Betty’s story, however, did not end there. She later found love again with Dr. J. Austin Daly, who would go on to serve as the medical director of Ventura County Hospital. Together they sought a fresh start and a place to raise a family, and in 1950 they built this custom home on Marisol Drive.

They turned to Randolph Chalfant Head, a Los Angeles architect who studied under modernist masters and left his imprint across Southern California. Head is remembered for his devotion to mid-century modern ideals: open floor plans that encouraged family life and entertaining, dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows that dissolved the boundary between indoors and outdoors, built-in cabinetry that blended elegance with function, and signature fireplaces that became the heart of the home. His work often balanced warmth with clarity — a style perfectly suited to California’s climate and culture of postwar optimism.

Today, the current owners, only the second owners, have embraced its architectural roots while layering in their own vibrant personalities. The result is a house that still channels its mid-century spirit — timeless, light-filled, and inviting — while reflecting the creativity and energy of its newest stewards.

As you explore, be sure to look at the original architectural plans, on display today. They offer a glimpse into the mind of Randolph Chalfant Head and the Dalys’ vision for a modern family home in postwar Ventura.