This is an ongoing series. For the first story, go here.
What is your dream living room set on TV? As classic shows live on through retro channels and streaming services we’re seeing the sets that made us feel at home while watching our favorite shows. We’re taking a deep dive into what made these sets so special. If you have one you’d like us to examine or have some memories to share, email [email protected].
Leave It to Beaver (1957-1963)
Talk about a dream home. The Cleavers’ home at 211 Pine St. had what we all wanted as kids: It was spacious with lots of room for the parents’ own spaces. A garage to escape parental oversight. Our own wing away from the parents, so they wouldn’t yell at us.
OK, so we kids cherished our privacies — usually because our own versions of Eddie Haskell, Lumpy Rutherford, and Larry Mondello were always around giving us the business and getting us in trouble.
Beaver, Wally, and parents Ward and June lived in two homes — actually interior set facades, if you want to ruin the fun. The first two years, the Cleavers set up at 485 Maple Drive, on the Republic Studios set. From the third season on, they lived on Pine Street on the Paramount Pictures set. Most people, including me, prefer the Pine Street house in the fictional town of Mayfield.
The Cleavers’ home continued its TV career after Leave It to Beaver wrapped in 1963. The house was used on Marcus Welby M.D. and altered to become the home office of the title character.
It was the perfectly designed suburban home, perfectly. Once you entered the front door and complimented June on her outfit, you could turn right and take in the family area — the living room, showcased by a fireplace, and a sofa where Ward and June would share the evening paper. The dining room’s dining table was where the Cleavers settled in to catch up on family matters.
Beyond the dining room was the kitchen. It was perfect and beautifully designed with an island with a built-in cooktop, a built-in double oven, and a breakfast nook.
The first floor also includes my favorite room. As an adult now, I appreciate a comfy home office, and Ward’s study is ideal. It has a traditional desk, wood paneling, built-in shelves, and pocket doors (privacy for those times it’s necessary to lecture the Beaver or Wally).
Upstairs, the Beav and Wally have a cool room with a set of twin beds, a study area, and a private bathroom. Ward and June have their own room with a TV set. The only flaw was that the closets are not big enough for June’s cosmo wardrobe.
If you crave more, the internet is loaded with information on the Beaver’s home, especially the fine work done by MockingbirdLane.com. Go ahead and look for more. I promise: No one will give you the business or call you a creep.
