A very unusual property came up for sale in Southern California this month: the site of the now-defunct non-profit Wildlife Waystation. The property is an unusually secluded one; with the strong period atmosphere of its residence, it feels very distant from the city of Los Angeles, only a few miles to the south.

At one time, the 160-acre parcel was a sanctuary for animals that had been in operation for 40 years when it was closed this past spring. It was founded in the mid-1970s by Martine Collette, who was its president and COO.

Located in Sylmar, within the Angeles National Forest, the property is peppered with mature trees, including sycamore and eucalyptus, and features walking trails and paths, stone walls, numerous outbuildings and wildlife dwellings, brick and tile patios, and a koi pond.

The home on the property is a 1,200 square-foot lodge containing 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The interiors are clad in raw and polished timber, and feature a great deal of stone, with most floors and several fireplaces contributing to an intensely rustic living style.

The living spaces are very much an expression of their period. The kitchen is a characteristic example, with red brick, tile, and dark wood, and a prevailing sense of space which could be considered cozy or claustrophobic, depending on your point of view. The heavy earth tones, a great deal of wood grain, and a relaxed, cerebral 1970s feel continue through to the bedrooms. An interesting property, and one that’s more than a little bit of a time capsule.