MID CENTURY MODERN

& ARCHITECHTURAL HOMES

There is a definite appeal to a classic Los Angeles Mid-Century Modern home. Modern Design developed in the 1930s, the predecessor to Mid Century Modern, the design movement that became popular after WWII in 1945. Considered modern design because it values function over form, with its own unique twist. Mid-century modern uses dynamic decorative accents, expansive walls of glass, clean lines, muted curves and wide-open floor plans. Mid-century modern architecture featured flat roofs, angular details, asymmetrical contours, and the first to use bi-level structures, with the intention of making complementary indoor and outdoor living spaces. Adaptable and chic, Mid-century modern style appealed to everyone. The Case Study Program honored architectural designs of some of these landmark homes. With notable architects such as Richard Neutra, Pierre Koenig, J.R. Davidson, Thornton M. Abell, Charles Eames, Craig Ellwood, Rodney Walker, Buff and Hensman, and Raphael Soriano, creating the modernist movement in our city.

12221 DOROTHY STREET, BRENTWOOD | $4,995,000 | 3 BD | 3 BA

An exceptional modernist house built in the 80’s? Why, yes, Koenig House #2 by modernist architect Pierre Koenig is quite the specimen. This home represents one of over forty steel and glass residences built by the architect during his career. Another graduate from the prolific U.S.C. school of architecture, Koenig went on to work with the likes of Raphael Soriano, Edward Fickett, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Brentwood Koenig House #2 Mid-Century Masterpiece

His designs for a low-cost production house were published in Arts and Architecture, ultimately leading to his participating in the Case Study program, contributing Case Study #21 and #22. He built this house for himself and his wife Gloria. His ongoing belief in using industrial materials and methods to produce low-cost housing continues with this residence. The frame is said to have been erected in one day.


HOLLYWOOD HILLS STUNNING MID-CENTURY MODERN

2823 MONTCALM AVENUE, LOS ANGELES, | $2,995,000 | 3 BD | 3 BA

A classic sparkling kidney shaped swimming pool tops off the modern vibe.

Private and gated Mid Century Pool Home in the Hollywood Hills. As Hollywood was transitioning from the vintage glamour of the 1930’s and 1940’s, to what would become commonly known as the “mid century” design aesthetic. Ludwig Gluskin (a prominent band leader who worked with Orson Wells and George Burns) would commission architect Harry B Aarens to design a modern home on a special piece of property in the Hollywood Hills.

A classic sparkling kidney shaped swimming pool tops off the modern vibe.

Sited on a 27,000+ property, this Hollywood Hills Stunning Mid-Century Modern home sits hidden above the street and offers panoramic views from the Hollywood sign to the Griffith Park Observatory and beyond.


444 SYCAMORE ROAD, SANTA MONICA | $4,550,000 | 4 BD | 4 BA

Santa Monica The Schwartz House Pierre Koenig

It’s astounding that the architect responsible for Case Study Houses #21 and #22 in the 50’s and 60’s was still building homes in the 90’s. As as a graduate of the USC School of Architecture, Koenig was exposed to and worked with many of the most notable modernist architects of his day.

Santa Monica The Schwartz House Pierre Koenig

The Schwartz house in Santa Monica’s Rustic Canyon would be the last of his designs built during his lifetime.


8559 EDWIN DRIVE, HOLLYWOOD HILLS | $3,350,000 | 3 BD | 4 BA

Hollywood Hills Classic Mid-Century Modern Ranch

While we couldn’t find a known modernist architect on public records, this Hollywood Hills Mid Century Modern ranch fits the Cliff May or Edward Fickett mold quite nicely. This home is going to need some love, but, there’s lots to like already.

Hollywood Hills Classic Mid-Century Modern Ranch

The rock wall features prominently in common rooms. Oversized floor to ceiling glass in the living room allows for an infusion of light. High ceilings with beams that lead the eye towards vistas of the Valley. What’s not to love about the pink primary bedroom and bathroom. And, of course there’s a nice pool to sit by (or in) for Friday night martinis. 


JUST SOLD | 1445 GENESEE AVE, SPAULDING SQUARE | $3,855,000 | 5 BD | 6 BA

Hollywood Spaulding Square Picture Perfect

Picture perfect and magazine shoot ready. We were stunned to find out that the sellers of this spectacular home were not full-time designers. They recently updated this 1920’s traditional home in the architectural neighborhood of Spaulding Square. The attention to detail that went into this restoration really shows.

Hollywood Spaulding Square Picture Perfect

We were told the owners had the molds for the original crown molding and were able to reproduce and enhance the look throughout the home. Each room is a perfect blend of old and new. From original built ins to stunning new oak wood floors.


3937 SUMAC DR, SHERMAN OAKS | $3,200,000 | 4 BD | 3 BA

Sherman Oaks Timeless Ted Tokio Tanaka, FAIA

Architecture is timeless. At first glance we thought we stumbled upon something amazing from the late 70’s or early 80’s (we know, not likely). But this house from Ted Tokio Tanaka, FAIA was built in 1940. Gorgeous wood gives way to vertical and horizontal glass windows. Bright green accents in several rooms are bold frames for this geometric treasure.

Museum-like high ceilings define the living room and library. Rows of windows allow for natural light and stunning views of mature trees which surround the property. Intriguing form extends to the quadrilateral pool with various length sides. A canopy of trees creates abundant shade for outdoor endeavors. This exceptional modern house is a one-of-a-kind treasure. 


1979 N VAN NESS AVE, LOS ANGELES | $3,495,000 | 4 BD | 4 BA

Los Feliz Oaks Exceptional Smart Home

Introducing 1979 N Van Ness Ave.  Just below the foothills of the Los Feliz Oaks neighborhood sits this stunning property. This exceptional smart home has gone through an extensive architecturally significant renovation and remodel.

Los Feliz Oaks Exceptional Smart Home

Hidden behind mature hedges, you’ll discover a perfect mix of classic charm meets modern design. Upon entering, it is quickly evident that this is a one-of-a-kind property.


1963 N MANDEVILLE CANYON ROAD, LOS ANGELES | $3,497,900 | 3 BD | 3 BA

Brentwood Harry Gesner the Stebel House

We sadly lost Harry Gesner just last year. Fortunately, there are some stellar examples of his unique modern architecture. His Malibu Sandcastle hit the market earlier this year. Now, we have the Stebel House. This A frame is truly something special. We’re reminded of architecture usually found in houses of worship. 20ft high ceilings in places allow for some stunning vertical views of the natural habitat outside. A gabled roof line meets designed geometry.

Brentwood Harry Gesner the Stebel House

The sunken living room is surrounded by an interior rock garden and a triangular fireplace which appears to pierce the ceiling as it rises towards the sky. The primary bedroom boasts 18ft high vaulted ceilings, expansive spaces, and a floor to ceiling built in bookshelf. Gesner was truly a one-of-a-kind architect with original and intriguing designs.


1130 LINDA VISTA AVE, PASADENA | $1,999,999 | 2 BD | 3 BA

Pasadena The McMillan House Conrad Buff and Donald Hensman, FAIA

The magic words in modernist real estate: Orginal owner and first time on the market. The McMillan House by Conrad Buff and Donald Hensman is classic late period for them. And, remains in mostly original condition. Our first impression upon our approach is some really cool 80’s looking art work on the stucco outside the front door.

Pasadena The McMillan House Conrad Buff and Donald Hensman, FAIA

. The signature open floor plan is evident, yet the rooms feel properly delineated. There are wood cabinets for days all thru out the house, most of which appear to be in good condition. The rooms are good sized.


846 S LONGWOOD AVE, LOS ANGELES | $5,498,000 | 5 BD | 6 BA

Hancock Park Storybook Revival Home, Chateau Lemoine

If we think of Hollywood as the land of make believe, then call the coachman to bring around the carriage, we’re headed to a Storybook Revival home, Chateau LeMoine. French architect Earl LaMoine purchased this piece of land at the behest of his wife, as she loved the idyllic setting. The original home was styled to compliment the homes they knew in the South of France.

Hancock Park Storybook Revival Home, Chateau Lemoine

It was completed in 1926. Set in the Brookside neighborhood along the Arroyo De Los Jardines (Brook of the Gardens), the home is now gated and surrounded by tall, lush landscaping for plenty of privacy.