Mid-Century retreat with 'Scooby Doo' basement door hits market for $2.4m

A mid-century modern retreat with a hidden basement has hit the market in the US.

The five-bedroom abode in Phoenix, Arizona appears idyllic at first glance.

Located in the sought-after neighbourhood of Windemere, the home is marketed as a Ralph Haver remodel that has been tastefully updated.

Haver was a celebrated American architect who pioneered affordable design in the predominately desert state.

It has two independent accessory dwelling units, affording the owner five bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms.

The main living space blends clean lines and natural light, while the kitchen boasts custom walnut cabinetry, cork flooring, marble countertops and stainless appliances.

The property’s primary bedroom features a massive walk-in closet and a sleek, spa-level bath, according to the listing. 

Outdoors, the meticulous landscaping affords the home an all-season private resort feel with a spa-style pool. 

The only clear relic from Haver’s time is an antique safe in the hidden basement.

A single photo in the listing reveals a narrow hallway, with a long rectangle marked out on the floor. It’s soon revealed the shape is a carefully designed door. 

The safe, and the basement entry has caught the attention of many house hunters online.

“I didn’t even know homes had basements in Phoenix,” one person on Reddit wrote.

“Quite a lot have finished basements with bedrooms and bathrooms. It’s rare to see one that is industrial looking like this,” shared a second person.

“I’ve always wanted a trap door!!! Scooby Doo haunted houses have always been my house goal,” a third person wrote.

The property is on the market with Ariana Parry and Ardra M Hansen from The Brokery.

It is selling with an asking price of US$1,575,000 ($2.4 million).