MODERN LIVING LA | FEATURED POSTS

MAR VISTA GREGORY AIN, ARCHITECT MODERNIQUE HOMES

With as many examples of modernist architecture in Los Angeles, we, surprisingly, have few realized planned modern communities. This Gregory Ain designed house for the Modernique tract in Mar Vista is one of those few homes. A progressive architect who was arguably kept out of the Case Study program due to his controversial communist leaning views was still able to make a substantial impact on the landscape of Southern California modern homes. We know get to consider ourselves lucky to be associated with Ain.

LOS FELIZ EDWARD FICKETT THE JACOBSON RESIDENCE

Our experience with Edward Fickett mid century architecture usually has us pining away a casual day by the pool in Palm Springs. The Jacobson Residence in Los Feliz has plenty of the signature mid-century open floor plan vibes and walls of glass. But this custom residence was designed with warm woods, red brick and split levels.

IF YOU COULD ONLY SEE WHAT WE’RE SEEING

When we heard about a land art installation 50 years in the making, let’s just say we were intrigued. It all seemed a bit mysterious from the start.

TROUSDALE ESTATES THE CALVET RESIDENCE BY REX LOTERY, FAIA

As much as we’d like to say Trousdale Estates never disappoints, let’s face it, some of the houses have been remodeled beyond recognition from the original modernist design. The Calvet Residence by Rex Lotery, FAIA, however, is stunning.

LOS ANGELES PLAYS ITSELF | DOCUMENTARY ON LOS ANGELES ARCHITECTURE

Ok cinephiles, who’s seen Los Angeles Plays Itself? If you haven’t, do yourself a favor and give it a look. Director Thom Andersen put together and intriguing documentary of how Los Angeles is depicted in film. And, as a treat for architecture lovers, there’s a whole section on modernist houses. Homes by John Lautner, Richard Neutra, Pierre Koenig and Frank Lloyd Wright are prominently featured in the film. Anderson humorously points out that these homes are often the residences of the movie’s villain. According to Hollywood filmmakers, I guess we are to believe that gangsters, pimps, pornographers and drug dealers all love masterful architecture.

GLENDALE A QUINCY JONES ARCHITECTURAL

Run, don’t walk. An A Quincy Jones architectural house for lease. This Sun Villa home has concrete, cork, glass and wood. Palm trees galore surrounding a classic mid century kidney shaped pool. This will be swept up in record time.

BRENTWOOD MODERNIST UTOPIA: CRESTWOOD HILLS

We recently had the privilege of touring the first structure built in Crestwood Hills area of Brentwood. Known as the site office, it housed the office area for the architects, draftsman, engineers etc., working on what was then called the Mutual Housing Association. Conceived in the mid 1940’s (around the time of the development of the Case Study program), the Mutual Housing Association was supposed to be a blue print for California modern living post World War II. Four friends, returning veterans and musicians, concocted a plan to build four houses with a communal swimming pool.

LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE LLOYD WRIGHT EMANUEL GAINSBURG RESIDENCE

Another great Lloyd Wright home just hit the market in La Canada Flintridge. The Emanuel Gainsburg residence from 1946 does not disappoint. From a stunning roof line to ribbed concrete walls, this house has a generous amount of original details that make it so special. Unique room angles create geometric patterns making this a one-of-a-kind home. There has been some extensive renovation to the property. We may suggest the new owner rethink the flooring. But, overall, this is an exceptional masterpiece from one of the greatest modernist architects contributing to the Southern California landscape.

LOS FELIZ THE CLIFFORD CLINTON RESIDENCE

Well, here’s a Spanish Colonial Revival to gush over. Designed by architect Arthur W Larson, the Clifford Clinton Residence is a registered Historic Cultural Landmark. The impressive frontage conjures days of bygone Hollywood. The gorgeous ornate front door sets the tone for the stately decor inside: beamed ceilings, leaded windows, and original molding unlike we’ve ever seen before. We do confess we’re glad none of the taxidermied animals made their way over from the historic Clifton’s Cafeteria that Clifford founded in downtown Los Angeles.