The Top Antique room, built by Helmuth in 1940 as the first section of The Row, was one of three structures completed after the Deetjen’s purchased the property in 1936. Helmuth and his wife, Helen, lived in the upper-level apartment, a space they affectionately called the “tower” or “castle”. From this perch, they could over look the entire Inn while still enjoying a view of the Pacific Ocean. Below was the antique store Helen ran for many years. Following Helen’s passing in 1962, Helmuth moved downstairs, and Top Antique was converted into a guest room. Today, it stands as a cherished part of the Inn’s history, preserving the charm and legacy of the Deetjens’ early years in Big Sur.