Silver Lake Architecture

Fischer Residence, Eugene Weston III 1957

Gustavo Gubel Architecture

3438 Larissa Drive, Gustavo Gubel, Architect 1995

Architect Gustavo Gubel designed the house in 1995; it was his first project. It is currently (May 2013) on the market listed for sale for $925K.

The listing is described as "Gated Hilltop Oasis. Breaking barriers between private and public spaces. Gorgeous RENO: newer high-end walnut floors throughout. Custom privacy fencing and redwood gates. Re-designed rear yard; dark cement pavers, thyme ground covering, outdoor spa, fire pit and pergola to dine or relax. Custom awnings. Chef's kitchen. Vaulted beamed ceilings, skylights. Private Master Suite; Luxurious bathroom; Steam Shower, Roman Spa tub, Dual sinks. Great indoor/outdoor flow: entertainer's deck with views of Sunset Junction and Silver Lake Hills. Property comes with approved/permitted plans for a 3-car garage with a 800 sq ft living space above".

3438 Larissa Drive, Gustavo Gubel 1995

Architect Gustavo Gubel designed the house in 1995; it was his first project. It is currently (May 2013) on the market listed for sale for $925K.

3438 Larissa Drive, Gustavo Gubel 1995

Architect Gustavo Gubel designed the house in 1995; it was his first project. It is currently (May 2013) on the market listed for sale for $925K.

Gubel Residence, Gustavo Gubel, Architect 2000

This dramatic residence was built in 2000 by Argentina-born Gustavo Gubel as his personal residence. It was one of four featured homes on the Spring 2004 A.I.A. 'Hills of Silver Lake' Home Tour. Educated at the Southern California Institute of Architecture, Gubel's work has matured with experience and combines practicality with a relaxed elegance. Other works by Gubel in the Silver Lake area include the residence at 3438 Larissa Drive (1995) and the two Mayan-like pyramids under construction at the 1400 block of North Occidental Blvd. due for completion in the first quarter of 2005.

Of the four homes on the AIA Spring Tour, the Gubel Residence was my personal favorite. His work draws on the influence of the great modernists like Richard Neutra (one of his self-confessed heroes) combined with an extensive use of natural materials (especially beautiful woods) that give his homes so much warmth.

Gustavo Gubel Residence, Gustavo Gubel, Architect, 2000

1404 & 1408 N. Occidental Blvd., Gustavo Gubel, Architect 2005

These two majestic edifices arise like twin neo-Mayan pyramids above Silver Lake Blvd. Argentina-born and SCI-Arc educated Gustavo Gubel spent more than two years on the project. They are a strong testament of the power of architecture to transform a neighborhood.

Kemper Nomland in Silver Lake

Bill Jadiker Duplex, Kemper Nomland Jr., Architect 1961

1732 Silver Lake Blvd., Kemper Nomland Jr. Architect

2004 Apex Avenue

1726-1730 Silver Lake Blvd., Kemper Nomland Jr. Architect c.1957

2nd Annual Hike for the Homeless

Second Annual Hike for the Homeless Coming to Griffith Park April 28, 2012

Master of Ceremonies Brian Ridgely at the 2012 Hike 4 the Homeless

Hike 4 the Homeless MC Brian Ridgely

St. Vincent de Paul Board President Claire Padama & Friends

St. Vincent de Paul Executive Director David R. Fields with Hiker Dan Curtis 2011 Hike 4 the Homelss

David R. Fields, Executive Director, Society of St. Vincent de Paul Council of Los Angeles

UCLA Students Participating in the 2011 "Hke 4 the Homeless"

HIke 4 the Homeless Banner

HIke 4 the Homeless Los Feliz Area Hikers

HIke 4 the Homeless Los Feliz Area Hikers 2011

HIke 4 the Homeless Los Feliz Group

Jose O'Malley's Breakfast Burritos were a big hit at the 2011 Hike

Los Angeles is Home to 10% of the entire U.S. homeless population
A shocking statistic.

Michael Remacle, Dan & Lani Curtis, 2011 Hike 4 the Homeless

Monique Friese (on the right) 2011 Hike 4 the Homeless

A Sacred Hollow in Griffith Park

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Council of Los Angeles

St. Vincent Cardinal Manning Center in Skid Row Los Angeles

Tom La Bonge & David R. Fields, Hike 4 the Homeless

UCLA Hikers for the Homeless

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Jeff & Beth Morris Residence, A. Morris, Architect 2010

Jeff & Beth Morris Residence, A. Morris, Architect 2010
The Silver Lake architecture map has a notable new addition in the house Architect A. Morris designed in 2010 for Jeff and Beth Morris. The concrete, steel and glass house recently (March 2012) came on the market priced at $1,949,000. I was fortunate to get a tour thanks to the generosity of the listing agent. The house is a sensory experience: a wide open floor plan with an amazing indoor-outdoor flow, a huge master suite on the second floor, polished concrete floors, a fountain/spa near the front entrance, a spectacular combination pool and spa in the back with a panoramic view of the Sierra Madre mountains and city light below. If you would like to experience it before some celebrity snaps it up let me know! Located at 2284 Hidalgo Avenue.The Silver Lake architecture map has a notable new addition in the house Architect A. Morris designed in 2010 for Jeff and Beth Morris. The concrete, steel and glass house recently (March 2012) came on the market priced at $1,949,000. I was fortunate to get a tour thanks to the generosity of the listing agent. The house is a sensory experience: a wide open floor plan with an amazing indoor-outdoor flow, a huge master suite on the second floor, polished concrete floors, a fountain/spa near the front entrance, a spectacular combination pool and spa in the back with a panoramic view of the Sierra Madre mountains and city light below. If you would like to experience it before some celebrity snaps it up let me know! Located at 2284 Hidalgo Avenue.

Shields Residence, Glen Bell, DEX Studio; John Shields, Landscape Design 2011

Shields Residence, Glen Bell, Dex Studio Design, John Shields, Landscape Design 2011
The Shields House was designed by Venice-based architect Glen Bell, DEX Studio for John Shields, a landscape architect and concept site planner for theme parks, and his artist/illustrator partner, Nat Reed, re-imagining a single story stucco box on Redcliff Street in Silver Lake. The restyling involved reorienting the first floor, adding a second floor, and altering the facade to bring in more natural light and highlight the home’s panoramic views.. Hand-crafted screens on the exterior provide texture while visually tying the main house with a separate studio. The pattern continues throughout the home with suspended acrylic orange-colored panels suspended from the ceiling, enclosing the stairway and at the same time creating a fantastic prism of color in the interior spaces. The collaboration between the principals (landscape architect and artist) and the architect is evident everywhere, from the rectilinear pattern rug in the downstairs bedroom to the design of the exterior spaces. A tiered system of poured concrete steps and planters, enhanced by native and drought-tolerant plantings progressively reveals the connection between the architecture and gardens reducing water usage, while the terraces allow rainwater to seep into the soil rather than run off to the street.
The hilltop home was one of six homes featured on the 2011 Dwell on Design home tour. Shields studied landscape architecture at the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Located at 1855 Redcliff Street in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles.
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Shields Residence, Glen Bell, Dex Studio Design, John Shields, Landscape Design 2011

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence, Eugene Kinn Choy, Architect c.1949

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence. Eugene Kinn Choy, Architect 1949

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence c.1949

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence 1949

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence c.1949

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence c.1949
Eugene Kinn Choy Residence c.1949

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence c.1949

The Mid-Century Remembered

McIntosh House, Richard Neutra, Architect 1937-39
Built between 1937 and 1939 for Mr. and Mrs. Harry G. McIntosh, this small house has been described as 'private and secluded' from the lower street level and 'open and exhuberant' from the upper living levels where a wrap-around terrace and walls of glass take advantage of the view to the west and south. With its distinctive redwood siding, The McIntosh House is a departure from the 'machine' architecture associated with many of the Silver Lake homes designed by Richard Neutra. The McIntosh House is located at 1317 Maltman Avenue in Silver Lake. It was built at a cost of $3,800. It is the home of Neutra expert-architect John Bertram, principal of Bertram Architects and his wife, actress-writer Ann Magnuson.

Fleming Drefeld House, Raul F. Garduno, Architect c.1962
Architect Raul F. Garduno designed the house in 1962 for Fleming Drefeld. The house was featured in an article entitled, "Hillside House on an Anchor of Steel" in the Home Section of the Los Angeles Times on July 22, 1962. Drefeld was an employee of the Times who worked the night shift reportedly as a typesetter. The original house had 1300 sq. ft. of living area covering living room, entrance hall, master bedroom, studio and two baths. In addition, there is 600 sq.. ft.. of deck space. Prefabricated plywood vaults form a dramatic scalloped roof line; the wood post-and-beam construction resting on an exposed steel frame. In 1964 the house was purchased by its present owners and has been maintained in a pristine condition, adding only a wine cellar on the lower level and extending the master bedroom a few feet into the backyard. Original interiors and colors designed by Van Keppel-Green are intact, a little-known but important modernist design firm founded by Hendrik Van Keppel and Taylor Green in the late 1930s. The Fleming Drefeld House is located at 1956 Lucile Avenue in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Eugene Kinn Choy Residence, Eugene Kinn Choy, Architect 1949
Born in Guangdong, China, Eugene Kinn Choy immigrated with his parents to the United States in 1898. They settled in Bakersfield, where the family made a living selling blue jeans to the farm hands working the fields of California's Central Valley. He enrolled in the University of Southern California School of Architecture, following in the path of Gilbert Leong. He was politically active on campus, serving in the Architecture School Student Senate and Alpha Lambda, a Chinese American student group. After graduation in 1939, he put his career ambitions on hold due to World War II; he went to work for Hughes Aircraft until the war was over. Resuming his architectural career, he became the first Chinese American in California to join the AIA; second only to New York-based I.M. Pei. He launched his own architectural practice with a small staff; designing a wide range of projects. He collaborated with his younger brother, Allan Kinn Choy, also a practicing architect, on several projects, including the FBI Office Building in Las Vegas, Choy built his personal residence in the Silver Lake community of Los Angeles at 3027 Castle Street in the Primrose Hill section. Constructed on a 50'-wide lot, the house sits back from the street, creating privacy. Inside, the house features floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a connection between the living area and the garden terrace.

1944 Lucile Avenue, Ray V. Otero, Architect 1961
Architect Ray V. Otero selected a hillside lot in Silver Lake affording dramatic city views and built this lovely post and beam in 1961. Highlighted by high ceilings and walls of glass, the residence expresses Otero's modernist ethic. A graduate of the University of Southern California School of Architecture, Otero designed his personal residence up the street a few houses at 1986 Lucile Avenue; he also did extensive remodeling of a home at 2215 Micheltorena Street. In the Los Feliz area, he designed and buillt a home at 2209 Live Oak Drive and another on Valley Oak Drive. He currently resides in Tulsa, OK.

Jenkyns House, Josef Van der Kar, Architect, 1960
The Jenkyns House in Silver Lake just came on the market (August 2011) priced at $1,070,000. The 3-bedroom, 2-bath house is a classic expression of California Modernism. Described in the listing, "The residence is lifted from the street with a slanted roofline, creating a dramatic soaring effect and capturing views of the Silver Lake Reservoir.. Exposed posts and beams, brick fireplaces, and floating staircases punctuate the classic design." The architect, who passed away in 2002 aged 94, was friends with other non-conformists of the period, including architectural photographer Julius Schulman, landscape designer Garrett Eckbo, and fellow "radical" architect Gregory Ain. He was a card-carrying Communist whose political activism made him a target of the House Un-American Activities Committee. Shulman photographed the Jenkyns House for his friend, but never allowed them to be published, citing privacy issues. The house is located at 1973 Redesdale Avenue.

Muir Dawson House, John Nash Anderson, Architect 1956
The Muir Dawson "Tree House", designed by John Nash Anderson in 1956. Muir Dawson was a second generation partner in Los Angeles' oldest-running bookstore, Dawson's which began in downtown Los Angeles in 1905.

Oliver House, Rudolph Schindler, Architect, 1933

Rudolf Schindler positioned the house on an angle away from the street in order to maximize the views to the west. Schindler furnished the house with his own signature 'unit' furniture, allowing assembly in a variety of combinations. It was built at a cost of $4 per square foot.

The Oliver House is located at 2236 Micheltorena Street in the Moreno Highlands neighborhood of Silver Lake.

Wilson House, R.M. Schindler Architect 1887-1953

Between 1933 and 1940, Rudolf Schindler designed four distinctive homes in the beautiful Moreno Highlands section of Silver Lake. These homes were designed to take advantage of the views of Silver Lake Reservoir. Wilson House. located at 2090 Redcliff Street, can best be observed from Kenilworth Avenue below.

Manola Court Apartment Building, R.M. Schindler, Architect, 1926-1940

Rudolph Schindler designed and had these apartments built for his client, the artist/designer Herman Sachs over a 14-year period. They are an excellent example of Schindler's abstract style. Located at 1811-1830 Edgecliffe Drive. The entire complex of sixteen residences 'set within hilliside gardens on three adjacent street-to-street parcels' was listed for sale (July 2008) for $3M. A dramatic 2-story owner's loft connects directly to the original studio.

Photo taken from the 1800 block of Lucile Avenue.

Bubeshko Apartments, Rudolph Schindler, Architect 1938-1941

The Anastasia & Luby Bubeshko Apartments designed by Rudolph Schindler. Garnering world acclaim, the building was featured in the MOCA Schindler Retrospective as one of the architect's best-known multi-family designs. Located at the Southeast corner of Lyric Avenue and Griffith Park Blvd., these much-photographed apartments have great indoor/outdoor flow with their oversize roof terraces. The Mayan style blocks add a dramatic element.

These landmark apartments recently (June 2004) went on the market for $1.5 Million. Declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2006 (No. 831).

Droste House, R.M. Schindler Architect, 1940

Designed for the Droste family of Belgian Chocolate fame, this lovely home is located at 2025 Kenilworth Avenue in Silver Lake. Rudolph Schindler was one of Silver Lake's most prolific architects of the Modernist Movement. Immigrating from Vienna in 1914 at the age of 26, and after a three year stint in Chicago, he established himself with the firm of Frank Lloyd Wright where he supervised the construction of Hollyhock House. Wright was to become Schindler's most important influence.
No less than 41 of his structures can be found in the Southern California landscape. Silver Lake has the most: nine (eight residences and one apartment building). The other architect most closely associated with Rudolf Schindler is of course, Richard Neutra. They were classmates together in Austria. Between them they produced many important contributions to early 20th-century architecture.

The Droste House is located at 2025 Kenilworth Avenue in the Moreno Highlands In 2006, the Droste House was declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument (No. 837),

Avenal Cooperative Housing Project, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1947

In the 1940's Gregory Ain designed several attached and detached housing projects that were notable for their site planning and innovation. These began with the Dunsmuir Flats in 1937, after which he received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1940. Other projects were planned, but few were built due to the aversion by financial institutions to provide funding. The Avenal Housing Project was one of his great successes. Built for a musician's union to provide housing for its members, the condominiums provide remarkable separation and privacy employing such devices as sliding partition walls. Several of the ten units have undergone extensive restoration. Architect Gordon Olschlager received a Merit Award for his work on one of the units in 2005, adding storage and additional elements. The units are approximately 1100 square feet with private patios and entrances. One of the units came on the resale market in December 2005 at a price of $650,000, a 'bargain' for a great work of art.

The Avenal Cooperative Housing Project is located at 2839-2949 Avenal Avenue in Silver Lake.

Ain & Garrott Studio, Ain & Garrott, Architects, 1950

Gregory Ain and James Garrott designed this mid-century modernist building for their offices in 1950. Garrott was one of the few African-American architects working in California at the time.

The studio is located at 2311 Hyperion Avenue.

Daniels House, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1939

A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1908, Gregory Ain became fascinated with architecture when, at a young age he was introduced to the work of R.M. Schindler's King Road House. His training at the University of Southern California in architecture came at a critical time. While studying the Beaux Arts architecture in fashion at the time, the power ot the new International Architecture was being felt throughout the land and was revolutionizing the study of architecture. These influences lead him to the offices of Richard Neutra where he served a successful apprenticeship.

His early work was focused on finding housing solutions for middle and low-income families. This necessitated the use of low cost materials and methods. He was one of the first great California architects to give dignity and refinement to low cost housing. The Daniels House, located at 1856 Micheltorena Street is a great example of his work.

Tierman House, Gregory Ain, FAIA, Architect, 1940

Gregory Ain studied architecture at the University of Southern California during the years 1927-28. While the fashion of architectural training of the day was for the 'beaux arts', the movement towards modernism was beginning to make its impact at all levels of life, including architecture. These revolutions in our understanding of any human endeaver often have their beginnings on the campuses of the world's universities. As a youth, Gregory Ain was acquainted with Rudolf Schindler's Kings Road house, and this 'new style' of architecture definitely had an impact upon him.

After graduation, Gregory Ain went to work in the office of Richard Neutra in Silver Lake, already established as one of the 'young lions' of the emerging modernist movement. Early in his career, Gregory Ain developed an interest In group housing for low and middle income families. In 1937, he began the development of Dunsmuir Flats, which became his signature work, and which through the photography of the great Julius Shulman, established his reputation.

In 1940 Ain received a Guggenheim Fellowhip for the development of low-cost housing. One of the most successful schemes was the Avenal Housing Project in Silver Lake, twenty attractive hillside units with private patios and living rooms with views, built for the members of a musician's union whos members worked in the film industry.

Tierman House, located at 2323 Micheltorena Street in the Moreno Highlands was designated in 1974 by the City of Los Angeles as a Historic Cultural Monument (No. 124) and noted for its 'architectural simplicity and elegance achieved through relationship between building and site.'

Other Gregory Ain homes in Silver Lake are Daniels House, 1856 Micheltorena Street and Orans House, 2404 Micheltorena Street. There is also an office building located at 2311 Hyperion Avenue in Silver Lake which was once the office of Gregory Ain and James Garrott, one of the few African-American architects in practice at the time.

Becker House, Gregory Ain, Architect 1938-40; Barry Milofsky, M2A Architects, Restoration 2003-07

The Becker House marks a divergence of style for Architect Gregory Ain. Instead of the usual right angles, Ain brings a touch of the Streamline Moderne with curved walls along the upper corners and garden walls. The result is not only pleasing to the eye; it demonstrates the architect's detachment from the expression of any particular style.

According to Architect Barry Milofsky, who purchased the house in December 2003, 'the Beckers wanted a 'party house', with access to a roof deck. There was orignially an open patio behind a privacy wall at the street level, and a narrow deck on the east side in back of the garage and at the lower level where the dining room was located. A dumbwaiter was installed to bring food from the kitchen at the lower level. A second owner enclosed the deck behind the garage. The third owners, Roy and Delores Dundas, purchased the house in 1960; althought they would have preferred the mosque-style house next door but couldn't afford the additional $2,000 asking price,' he said.

Dundas made significant alterations, including relocating the kitchen to the enclosed patio area on the street level, maintaining a small patio off the kitchen and adding a powder room between the front door and the garage. A second bedroom was added on the lower level, and a large deck off the living room.

Architect Miofsky has built a solid reputaton for restoring architecturally-significant properties under the umbrella of his firm, M2A Architects. After purchasing the home in 2003, Milofsky began the task of upgrading the out-of-date elements, exposing and refininshing the original hardwood floors, upgrading 40-year old kitchen appliances, adding lighting in the living room and deck, and removing extensive mini blinds to expose the views. In 2007, he added a large opeable skylight in the kitchen to allow light into the living room and replaced the kitchen roof to reestablish the original garage roof/fascia line in front of the house. In keeping with the Ain vernacular, he added a floating shelf in the kitchen and cabinets below the living room windows, assuming the original design. Original railings were re-created and installed as well as the original Ain color palette to the upper level.

The Becker House is located at 1828 San Jacinto Street in the Moreno Highlands neighborhood of Silver Lake.

Becker House, Gregory Ain, Architect 1938-40; Barry Milofsky, M2A Architects, Restoration 2003-07

Orans House, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1941

Ain's ingenious design provided for a u-shaped driveway and a drive-through garage, with garage doors on both ends allowing cars to enter or exit from either direction. This solved the problem of providing for parking, entry and egress on a small lot on a narrow street. Note the bands of glass windows in the upper living areas, a signature trademark of the architect.

Orans House is located at 2404 Micheltorena Street.

Jacobson Residence, Edward H. Fickett Architect 1951

View from the pool. The reflected light in the late afternoon sun demonstrates the architect's ability to capture the essence of the California "dream" house.

Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951, Lori Oddino Interiors
Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951, Lori Oddino Interiors. Homeowner Marylin Friedman chose Silver Lake-based Interior Decorator Lori Oddino to select furniture and a color scheme for her woodsy Harwell Hamilton Harris-designed home. Oddino chose a complimentary palette of reds and golds that harmonize beautifully with the rich redwoods, creating a warm, inviting space.

Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951
Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951. View from the rear garden.

Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951

Architect Harwell Hamilton Harris stands apart from the other major architectures of his time. Unlike his contemporaries (enamored with the in-fashion 'machine' International Style), Harris had a love affair with wood throughout his long, distinguished career.

The Hopmans House, located at 1727 N. Dillon Street in Silver Lake is an excellent example of his organic, woodsy style.

Hansen Residence Harwell Hamilton Harris, Architect (1950-51)

View from the front deck overlooking Silver Lake.

Hansen Residence Harwell Hamilton Harris, Architect (1950-51)

Interior view of the living room.

Hansen Residence Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1950-51

I had the privilege of visiting this lovely home in my capacity as photographer for the CSSLR 2006 Home Tour, 'Silver Lake Modernism- Then & Now'. Up until the assignment, I had only the opportunity to admire the house from the street and from what I had read in architecture books. My curiosity was hightened with the purchase of Barbara Bestor's new book (2006) entitled, 'Bohemian Modern: Living in Silver Lake' which features the Hansen House. Fashion Designer, Kirk Nozaki, who purchased the home in 1992 was kind enough to give me a tour of the home and allow me to share these photographs with you.

Although Harris served his apprenticeship under the tutelage of Richard Neutra, he rejected the 'machine' architecture of the International Style in favor of a more organic naturalism associated with Frank Lloyd Wright. In Harris' architecture, we experience a wholly American style that bridges the past with the future.

The Hansen House is located at 2305 West Silver Lake.

For more information on Harwell H. Harris, the book entitled, 'Harwell Hamilton Harris', by Lisa Germany, (University of California Press, 1991) makes for excellent reading.

Koblick House, Richard Neutra 1937

Situated on a steep slope on a hill on the southeast side above the lake at 1816-1818 Silverwood Terrace, this beautiful duplex designed by Richard Neutra has commanding views of the mountains and lake. The original structure cost $8,500 to build in 1937.

VDL Research House, Richard & Dion Neutra, Architects, 1932 & 1964

The experimental home where the Neutra family lived in Silver Lake, known as the Van der Leeuw Research House (VDL) in honor of Neutra's patron, the young Dutch industrialist, Kees van der Leeuw. In the early 1930s, this home was the workshop for such distinguished architects as Gregory Ain, H.H. Harris, and Raphael Soriano all of whom served their architectural apprenticeship under the watchful eye of Richard Neutra.

The original house, built in the pure International Style, was partially destroyed by fire in 1963, The present structure was rebuilt by Richard's son, Dion Neutra on the original footprint. The house was willed by Dionne Niedermann Neutra, to the College of Environmental Design, California State Polytechnic University at Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona), which is charged with its restoration and maintenance, as well as a research center.

The VDL Research House is located at 2300 Silver Lake Blvd. in Silver Lake. It was declared an Historic-Cultural Monument in the City of Los Angeles in 1997. (No. 640). To arrange a tour of the Center, call the University at (909) 869-2667.

Yew House, Richard Neutra, Architect 1957

Designed for Mr. and Mrs. Wong Yew in 1957, the architect has in mind a house designd for entertaining and enjoyment of the view. The Master Bedroom, for example, has a roof deck served by a dumbwaiter from the kitchen. The kitchen itself has open "see-thru" shelves so that the lake may be seen at all times. Neutra's design merges the interior of the house with the outside, bringin a sense of always being connected to nature.

The Yew House is located at 2226 Silver Lake Blvd.

Kambara House, Richard Neutra, Architect, 1960

Part of a grouping of ten houses known as the Neutra Colony, the largest concentration of architecturally-significant properties to be found in such a small geographical area. The house would appear almost connected to its neighbor to the north, the Inadomi House, built at approximately the same time, (with which it shares a common pathway to the street, before dividing at a small reflecting pool). The House has walls of glass, typical of Neutra's work, taking advantage of the lake views . Located at 2232 Silver Lake Blvd.

Yew House, Richard Neutra, Architect 1957

Designed for Mr. & Mrs Wong Yew, Neutra hand in mind a house for entertaining and enjoyment of the view. The Master Bedroom features a roof deck served by a dumbwaiter from the kitchen. The kitchen itself has open shelves so that the lake may be seen at all times, reflecting Neutra's philosophy; mergeing inside and outside elements so that one has the sense of always being connected to nature. The Yew House is located at 2226 Silver Lake Blvd

Edward J. Flavin House, Richard Neutra Architect 1957

Flavin House, Richard Neutra 1957

The Flavins admired the work of the Modernists and tried to buy two other existing Neutra homes first: the Alexander Meltzer House on Murray Drive and later, the Sokol House on East Silver Lake Boulevard. Not succeeding, they hired Neutra to start afresh which turned out to be a good choice. The Flavins were able to get the architect to design a home specifically for their personal needs which included a workshop at the northeast end of the house.

A member of the world famous 'Neutra Colony' the Flavin House is located at 2218 Neutra Place, between two other Neutras, the Reunion House (residence of the architect's son and partner, Dion Neutra) and the Ohara House.

Edward J. Flavin House, Richard Neutra Architect 1957

Inadomi House, Richard Neutra, Architect, 1960

The Inadomi House is located in the heart of the Neutra Colony of Homes on Silver Lake Drive, the highest concentration of Neutra Homes in the world. A pure example of the International Modern Style, unadorned, with large expanses of glass walls to take advantage of the views of the lake across the street. Located at 2238 Silver Lake Blvd.

Akai House, Richard Neutra 1962

Akai House is one of nine houses Neutra built between 1948 and 1961 in the 'Silver Lake Colony', a complimentary grouping of Neutra homes in a small geographic area. Akai House is located at 2200 Neutra Place next door to Neutra's Ohara House. It is a fascinating experience to take a walk on the east side of Silver Lake and visit the Neutra colony. Lloyd Wright's Ross House is in the immediate vicinity as well.

Sokol House, Richard Neutra 1948

One of the nine houses comprising the 'Neutra Colony' built incrementally between 1948 and 1961. The Sokol house was the first of the group and is distinctively different from the others. It is also one of the largest of the group, being 2382 square feet. The colony was designed as a 'posturing group' that is, 'the grouping of a team in cooperative action, where each individual posture complements the others and no soulless, mere side-by-side prevails.' The result is a 'community with a sense of sensual, animated tranquility, of accomplished sophistication rendered simply by mature hands. Each house is unique.'

Sokol House is located at 2242 E. Silver Lake Blvd.

(Notes taken from 'NEUTRA: Complete Works', published by Taschen Press 2000, by Barbara Mac Lamprecht, Peter Goessel, Editor, with Dion Neuta and Julius Shulman)

Ohara House, Richard Neutra 1959

A centerpiece of the Neutra Colony of Homes, the Ohara House is a classic example of the work of Modernist Richard Neutra. Gracefully situated and composed with commanding views of the Lake, it is one of my personal favorites. It was recently purchased for $1,205,000.

Dave Keitel, former Chairperson of the Committee to Save Silver Lake's Reservoirs (CSSLR), recently pointed out to me that the CORRECT spelling of the name for this Neutra house is 'Ohara' rather than O'Hara. The 'Ohara' spelling is Japanese, rather than the Irish 'O'Hara'. Some of the original owners of these Neutra homes were Japanese, who chose Silver Lake (and Echo Park) to live in the middle of the 20th Century and before because there were no race-based restrictive covenants in these neighborhoods. Thankfully, we can take pride in a long tradition of inclusiveness in our community!

The Ohara House is located at 2210 Neutra Place in the Neutra Colony just above Silver Lake Blvd.

Hancock Residence, Douglas Honnold & John Lautner, Architects, 1948
This appealing home overlooking Silver Lake Reservoir has always seized my attentive eye. I could only guess it was the work of a master architect or designer. I only learned recently (September 4, 2010) that my suspicions were correct. The house is mentioned in the book 'Modernism Rediscovered' by Pierluigi Serraino & Julius Shulman, a collection of essays on 'abandoned masterworks' that have been rediscovered. As with most lakeview homes, the windows are large and arranged to take advantage of the view. The room above the garage is most likey a later addition inasmuch as it does not appear in the original Shulman photograph. Located at 2107 West Silver Lake Drive. Thanks to reader Steven E. Finkel for his excellent scholarship in identfying the Hancock Residence for our readers.

Silvertop 1957

A.E Morris Studio, Allyn E. Morris Architect 1958

Jay Brick Residence, A.C. Munson, Architect c.1965.jpg
Architect A.C. Munson designed the house for Jack Brick in 1965. The only reference I could find for A.C. Munson was in the January 1913 Edition of the publication "The Architect and Engineer of California". A.C. Munson is mentioned as being on the organizing committee for the Fourth Annual Architectural Exhibition in Los Angeles, "under the auspices of the Architectural League of the Pacific Coast." Also serving on the committee were Myron Hunt and Arthur R. Kelly. Could it be that the same A.C. Munson designed the Brick House some 52 years later? It certainly is in the realm of possibility. The Brick House is located at 2030 Keilworth Avenue in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles. The house is currently on the market (June 2011) and priced at $1,200,000.

Arts & Crafts Movement: California Bungalows & Craftsman Style

August House c.1913
One of Maltman Avenue's fine Craftsman style homes, the August House was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2001 (No. 699). Located at 1664 Maltman Avenue.

1342 N. Edgecliffe Street c.1921
One of my favorite homes in Silver Lake, the large (5,476 sq. ft) home mixes Craftsman, Victorian and Tudor elements into a cohesive statement. Since 2001, the house has been the home of record producer Ulrich Wild and visual artist Elizabeth Wild. Specializing in the rock and metal genres, Ulrich's credits include producing albums for bands such as Sex Slaves, Project 86, Pantera, Here Comes The Kraken, Static-X, Otep, Stabbing Westward, Powerman 5000, Deftones, Seether, Bleeding Through, Breaking Benjamin, Taproot, Soil, World Entertainment War, and many other artists, and fsoundtracks for Freddy vs. Jason, Mission: Impossible II, and House of Wax. He was nominated for a Grammy for best engineered non-classical album in 1995 for his work with White Zombie. His wife, Elizabeth Wild earned her MFA from The Ohio State University with a concentration in glass and photographic studies and her BA from The University of Virginia with a major in Studio Arts and a minor in Art History. She is recipient of numerous fellowships including the Fundacîon Valpariso (Almerîa, Spain); FIVA Fellowship, National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (in cooperation with the Corcoran Callery of Art); and fellowships from Pilchuck Glass School (Seattle, Washington). She has completed a number of public art commissions through the Department of Cultural Affairs Los Angeles and through CRA/LA. She is currently the recipient of a 2009 mobile exhibitions grant from the City of Long Beach. She is Founder and Director of Winslow Garage, a project space in Silverlake. Winslow Garage has been exhibiting local and international contemporary artists since 2002.

Boyle-Lopez Residence, Martin Fenlon, Architect (remodel)
Restaurateurs Frank Boyle & Ray Lopez, owners of Si-La Bistro in Silver Lake (now closed), selected Architect Martin Fenlon to resurrect their turn of the century Craftsman-style triplex. The architect graduated from Ohio State University, where he received the Faculty Prize in Architecture in 1999, and prior to graduation, he worked for the renowned firm Morphosis in Santa Monica. After a stint with Zago Architecture in Detroit, he relocated to Los Angeles, establishing a private practice in 2004.

In the Boyle-Lopez Residence, Martin Fenlon has taken the ghost of an old Craftsman house and brought it to new life. The architect, who finds his artistic expression typically in modernism, accepted the commission with enthusiasm, describing it as a 'fun project'. 'Working with creative owners always makes my work easier', the architect mused. The result is a pleasing neo-Craftsman design that re-interprets the past with a modern sensibility. The architect also redesigned a rental house on the back of the lot; a ground-up project that emerged as a distinctly modernist statement, contrasting successfully with the larger Craftsman home in the front.

The Boyle-Lopez Residence is located at 1024 Manzanita Street.

Erv Peckham Residence, George F. Costerisan, Architect 1910
Silver Lake is fortunate to have a significant number of Craftsman-style homes remaining that were built during the early part of the twentieth century, thanks to the efforts of preservation-minded homeowners and the influence of advocacy groups such as the Los Angeles Conservancy. The Erv Peckham Residence, located at 1377 Maltman Avenue is one of the best examples of the style. The architect, George F. Costerisan, practiced architecture in Los Angeles from about 1887 until 1926. The highest concentration of homes from the period are clustered within a few blocks north and south of Sunset Boulevard where early development of Silver Lake took place. Architectural Historian/Sleuth John G. Ripley offers some interesting details about the architect, 'George Costerisan worked in partnership with architectural designer Frank Kavanaugh from about 1912 until 1915. Census data between 1910 and 1930 indicate that George lived around the corner from the Maltman house at 1410 Edgecliffe. It is likely that he also designed the Edgecliffe house, but that would need to be checked out. The assessor's date is 1906, but any assessor's date before 1915 is not necessarily very accurate.'

880 N. La Fayette Park c.1912
Silver Lake is fortunate to have a significant number of Craftsman-style homes remaining that were built during the early part of the twentieth century, thanks to the efforts of preservation-minded homeowners and the influence of advocacy groups such as the Los Angeles Conservancy. The house located at 880 N. La Fayette Park is a fine example.

832 Coronado Terrace c. 1895
As a history buff, I have often wondered when the very first houses in Silver Lake were built. While I can't be absolutely sure, the best information I have at present is that the first homes in Silver Lake on record appear to have been built in the late 1890s.

Coronado Terrace, on the edge of Echo Park, has the oldest houses still standing in Silver Lake. The house at 832 Coronado Terrace is perhaps the best preserved. Built in 1895, it retains much vintage character.

Romantic Silver Lake

Villa Monaco, Armand Monaco & William Bordeaux, Architects 1921
Grand Italianate Villa designed by Architects Armand Monaco and William Bordeaux c. 1921. Armand was a young boy when his parents immigrated from Italy in 1907 along with four other siblings, settling in Chicago. After graduation from Northwestern University, he served as Principal Designer in the Chicago architectural office of Jarvis Hunt. His name first appears in Los Angeles in 1921 when he worked as a designer in the offices of Robert D. Farquhar and Myron Hunt. In the same year he formed a partnership with William Bordeaux which lasted until 1926. Monaco & Bordeaux designed several Italianate style residences for wealthy clients during their partnership, including a home for actress Betty Blythe in Los Feliz and the Villa Monaco in Silver Lake, both in 1921 where Armand lived until 1965. After the partnership dissolved in 1927, Monaco continued to work, designing the original French Hospital in Chinatown (now the Pacific Alliance Medical Center) in 1927 and the Haggerty House in Palos Verdes Estates (now the Neighborhood Church, 415 Paseo Del Mar) in 1928. His last project was the design for St. Peters Italian Catholic Church located at 1039 N. Broadway in 1947 (the design is similar to the Haggerty House built 20 years earlier). He died in Los Angeles on August 13, 1989.

816 Waterloo St. c.1895
As a history buff, I have often wondered when the very first houses in Silver Lake were built. While I can't be absolutely sure, the best information I have at present is that the first homes in Silver Lake on record appear to have been built in the late 1890s. Waterloo Street, on the eastern edge of Silver Lake bordering of Echo Park, has some of the oldest houses still standing in the area. The house at 816 Waterloo Street is one of the best preserved. Built in 1895, it retains much vintage character.

1620 Angelus Av. Dunn & Ackeman 1926
A Norman castle built in the heyday of Romantic architecture in Silver Lake. Located at 1620 Angelus Avenue.

1921 Redcliff Street, Arthur C. Munson, Architect 1932
Classic Spanish Revival home located in the Primrose Hill neighborhood of Silver Lake. Set back from the street on a gentle downslope, the home was built for the Farm Land and Development Company at a cost of $8600, a princely sum during the economic depression of the early 30's. The architect, Arthur C. Munson (1886-1969), had a long, distinguished career in Los Angeles. Among his other commissions were the F.L. Austin House in South Pasadena; the Raymond C. Brooks Residence in Claremont; the Long Beach Theatre Project and the E.T. Williams House in Los Angeles. With his partner Allen Kelly Ruoff, he designed the William J. Hubbard Residence in Wilshire Park in 1923 (honored as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2006).

2079 Kenilworth Lester Walker Res. Harold Campbell Builder 1928
Classic Spanish Revival residence located at 2079 Kenilworth Avenue in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles.

John Hunt House c.1930
Spanish Colonial Revival style house built in 1930 for John Hunt. The house was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2001 (No. 704)..No one seems to know why the residence was awarded the historic designation, however the five-bedroom, four-bath home is reasonably unaltered and has some fine details, including a wrought iron staircase, stained-glass windows, and vintage tile work, complete with a dramatic view of the reservoir. The 4,210 square foot property was last sold in July 2010 at a foreclosure auction for $1.03 million. As of January 2011 it was listed for sale for $1,594,000. Located at 2055 W. Silver Lake Drive,

Parmelee House, Frank T. Kegley, Architect 1912
At the age of 64, Frank Parmelee retired from his position as President of the Parmellee Omnibus and Transfer Company in Chicago, and move to the sunnier climes of Los Angeles. In 1911, he purchased the entire southernly portion of the Elevado street property (with approximately 521 feet of street frontage) and commisioned architect Franklin T. Kegley to design a home for he and his wife Meroe C. Parmelee. Kegley designed the home in the grand Tudor Revival style, with five bedrooms, four bathrooms and (at least) three fireplaces (one a Batchelder); as I recall, and over 5000 sq. ft. of living space. The square observation tower, shown here, was added at a later date, possibly the 1930s. Over time, parts of the property were sold off, resulting in the current 18,905 sq. ft. of land. The Parmelees later moved to the Ambassador Hotel, where Mr. Parmelee passed away on November 30, 1921. Little is known of the life and career of Franklin T. Kegley. He was born on June 25, 1886. He received a certificate to practice architecture in California in May 1010. He first appears in Los Angeles directories in 1912, residing in Ocean Park; his earliest work seems to have been concentrated in the Santa Monica area. By 1913 he was advertising his services as an architect with an office at 607 South Hill Street, Room 330. In November 1915, he entered into a partnership with H. Scott Gerrity, who had been an associate of the great Carlton Winslow. The partnership was evidently short-lived, since it disappears from the directories by 1920. Kegley joined the Southern California Chapter of the American Institute of Architects in 1929, and in later years lived with his wife Ouida and son Thomas at 530 Levering Avenue in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Times published only a brief notice upon Mr. Kegley's death on September 16, 1962 at the age if 76, referring to him at 'Commander Kegley.' His other works include the McCall Residence (originally built in 1910 on 2nd Street in Santa Monica but moved in 1962 to 219 West Channel Road); St. Anthony's Catholic Church (with T. Foster Ena, Long Beach, 1913); Balguy Residence in Santa Monica (1913); St. James Catholic Church (Redondo Beach, 1914); and the Ocean Park Branch Library (2601 Main Street, Santa Monica, 1918). The Parmelee House is located at 1623 Elevado Street.

Burrows Residence, Charles F. Whittlesey?*, Architect 1921
Editor's Note: While I have a copy of the original building permit for a house at 2384 Loma Vista Pl. designed by Charles Whittlesay, I have new information that places considerable doubt on whether or not it is a Whittlesey design. Martin Schall (you-are-here.com) recently sent me a copy of an article (author unknown) alleging that the 'Whittlesey-designed house was moved; the 'Gaudiesque House' the work of a 'bunch of hippies'. I leave my original comments about the house; acknowledging our lack of information. If new details come to light, I will be happy to share them with you! Chicago Architect Charles F. Whittlesey, was an early proponent of a distinctively 'southwestern' style of architecture which combined native elements and materials from Spanish and Indian culture; resulting in a style loosely referred to as 'Spanish-Pueblo'. Other noteworthy early proponents of the style include Bertram Goodhue, Charles Lummis and Louis Curtis. Among the noteworthy projects completed by Whittlesey during his career, the Alvarado Hotel in downtown Phoenix (demolished in 1970) was perhaps his most famous. Considered Phoenix's most famous historic landmark, the loss of the Alvarado Hotel to the wrecking ball was one of the great architectural disasters of the twentieth century. The Livermore-Whittlesey-Jew House located in the Russian Hill Vallejo Crest Historic District in San Francisco is another fine example of the Pueblo Mission Revival Style designed by Whittlesey in 1912. Originally built as a duplex in 1921, The Burrows Residence stands in striking departure from Whittlesey's main body of work. Fanciful and playful, the Burrows Residence is no doubt inspired by the influence of Antoni Gaudi, the great Barcelona architect, a contemporary of Whittlesey's. The Burrows Residence is located at 2384 Loma Vista Place.

C.J. Berne Residence, C. Raimond Johnson, Architect 1937
Certainly one of the more imposing homes in Silver Lake, this handsome Mediterranean residence sits on a lot of over 16,000 square feet and must have spectacular views of the lake. The architect was a favorite of the University of Southern California designing the Italian Romanesque Methodist Episcopal University Church (now United University Church) in 1931, the Hancock Foundation Building in 1939 and Kerckoff Hall in 1949. Johnson also had a hand in designing the Biegler Hall of Engineering (in cooperation with architects John and Donald Parkinson) in 1939. The C.J. Berne Residence is located at 2023 Redcliff Street.

Aimee Semple McPherson Residence, John Pederson, Architect 1941
Situated high on the hill with expansive views of Silver Lake and to the west, this Spanish Revival is one of the loveliest to be found in Silver Lake. The home is situated at the top of a gated, private drive and has magnificent sprawling lawns, mature landscaping and a pool with approximately 4,000 square feet of living space situated on over 16,000 sq. feet of grounds. Editor's Note: Aimee Semple McPherson (1890-1944) was a colorful Pentecostal evangelist and Founder of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel. On the advice of neighbors, I originally identified this home as a Paul Williams design, however in checking the building permits, I now realize my mistake. Nevertheless, I hope that everyone concerned will appreciate this lovely home that has the 'look' of a Paul Williams home of the period. The McPherson Residence is located at 1982 Micheltorena Street in the Moreno Highlands.

Burrows Residence, Charles F. Whittlesey, Architect 1921
Editor's Note: While I have a copy of the original building permit for a house at 2384 Loma Vista Pl. designed by Charles Whittlesay, I have new information that places considerable doubt on whether or not it is a Whittlesey design. Martin Schall (you-are-here.com) recently sent me a copy of an article (author unknown) alleging that the 'Whittlesey-designed house was moved; the 'Gaudiesque House' the work of a 'bunch of hippies'. I leave my original comments about the house; acknowledging our lack of information. If new details come to light, I will be happy to share them with you! Chicago Architect Charles F. Whittlesey, was an early proponent of a distinctively 'southwestern' style of architecture which combined native elements and materials from Spanish and Indian culture; resulting in a style loosely referred to as 'Spanish-Pueblo'. Other noteworthy early proponents of the style include Bertram Goodhue, Charles Lummis and Louis Curtis. Among the noteworthy projects completed by Whittlesey during his career, the Alvarado Hotel in downtown Phoenix (demolished in 1970) was perhaps his most famous. Considered Phoenix's most famous historic landmark, the loss of the Alvarado Hotel to the wrecking ball was one of the great architectural disasters of the twentieth century. The Livermore-Whittlesey-Jew House located in the Russian Hill Vallejo Crest Historic District in San Francisco is another fine example of the Pueblo Mission Revival Style designed by Whittlesey in 1912. Originally built as a duplex in 1921, The Burrows Residence stands in striking departure from Whittlesey's main body of work. Fanciful and playful, the Burrows Residence is no doubt inspired by the influence of Antoni Gaudi, the great Barcelona architect, a contemporary of Whittlesey's. The Burrows Residence is located at 2384 Loma Vista Place.

Charles Hathaway Estate c.1923
One of Silver Lake's largest estates at 11,743 square feet on a lot of 82,764 square feet. This huge residence has a storied history, culminating in the development of the Hathaway Estates, a planned subdivision within Silver Lake. The house was built in 1923 and has a commanding 360 Degree View atop one of Silver Lake's highest hills. The house is built entirely of reinforced concrete; there is not one stick of wood in its structure. Mr. Hathaway apparently had a great fear of fire, and did not want his house burning down! It was recently (September 2004) on the market for $3,250,000. If any of our readers know about the development of Hathaway Estates, details about the original owner, architect or builder, please feel free to contact the editor of this column. NOTES: I recently received an e-mail from Michele Martin informing me that 'the Estate belonged to a Charles Hathaway, a director/studio head from the silent screen era. His great granddaughter, Robin Clarke, was my best friend and neighbor when I lived at 2400 Micheltorena Street.' Michele Martin Greenwich Library SLN Subscriber Ken Puchlik writes: 'From 1950 to 1965 I lived on Redesdale Ave. on the west side of the valley looking east at the Hathaway house on top of the hill. It was always vacant and never a light on. One night, the mansion was ablaze with light and everyone came out to wonder what was going on. It was simply the moon rising behind the home and the light was passing through the windows and out the other side. Obviously, it was devoid of furniture or curtains. I also remember that there was another large building or home next to it; people said it was another mansion. It apparently was demolished during the construction of the 'tract' homes that I believe were a poor use of the viewscape. Having half the number of lots with higher end-well designed homes, taking better advantage of the pre-existing topography, would have been better use of the land. The developer should have used the axiom of 'less is more' and probably realized more investment return by developing premium lots on what was a rare piece of land. Paradise lost. Mr. Hathaway had good reason to fear fire. In the early 50's a grass fire at the end of summer burnt up to the edge of the estate. Every local fire unit was on the scene. Dry summer grass was prevalent with all the vacant lots at the time. After that, the fire department started controlled burns of the lots every summer. Before the hum of the freeways diminished the neighborhood's ambient sound, you could hear the trains switching in the yards off Fletcher Dr. late at night. The greatest chili dogs in the world were sold out of the old Signal Gas station at Effie and Silver Lake Blvd. Across the street, the 7/11 was a Union Oil Gas station with the friendliest guys who took good care of you at 20 cents a gallon of gas. And a kid could walk the 0.75 mile to catch the PE and go to the Ramona and see a 25 cent movie without any concern for safety, even at night. Craig Collins writes 'When I moved here in 1982, the subdivision was just being built. The land had been bought by CalTrans for continuation of the Glendale Freeway, which was to connect with the Hollywood Freeway (near Vermont...where there's that very wide median), then on to Beverly Hills, which was to be the name of the freeway. As a result of that unfortunate choice of name and alignment, one of the very first successful opposition to a California freeway project was mounted, and the freeway ended at Glendale Boulevard. After many years, CalTrans began selling off the property, and you can pretty much trace the path by much of the newer construction, especially on the south side of Sunset. I had heard about an effort to create a park on the Hathaway hill, but know nothing further about it. How spectacular that would have been! Anyway, Peggy Stevenson was City Councilperson at the time, was a fervent supporter of the development community, and she evidently got quick approval of the housing project. After the development was completed, it mysteriously became a gated community. It's worth noting that Stevenson was defeated in a reelection bid by Michael Woo, who shepherded many of the pro-planning and more progressive changes in the city (such as getting a moratorium on the explosive development of mini-malls that was then in full swing). Upon her defeat, Stevenson systematically destroyed all the district constituent and project files in her office, forcing Woo to begin his office with nothing to aid projects and constituent concerns. That was the good old days in the LA City Council! Well, that's what I know, subject to verification by others who may have a better historical perspective. Veteran Silver Lake activist Maryann Kuk writes 'My recollection about Hathaway is that it had nothing to do with the #2 freeway. It was before I participated in any community stuff. The Hathaway estate (they are old money LA Athletic club, Riviera Country club, CA yacht club) sold it to a developer who wanted to build 100's of condos. SLRA got heavily involved opposing along with the immediate 'hood and the developer backed down to the 40+ or so [ugly, tract, crappy] houses. He promised to leave all of the mature tress, but the day after he got his permit he cut them all down. The Hathaway family had been collectors of specimens and I'm told it was beautiful.' The Silver Lake News thanks our readers for their generous contributions of history and insights of Silver Lake!

David Hyun House, Photo by Julius Shulman + Juergen Nogai
One of the most striking and unusual homes in Silver Lake, Architect David Hyun designed his palace-by-the-lake for his personal residence in 1993. The style is reminiscent of the Japanese Village Plaza, David Hyun's pioneering work that propelled Little Tokyo from an urban slum into a chic inner city success story. Born in Korea, David is the son of the late, great Rev. Soon Hyun, Korean Patriot. Rev. Hyun was a college student in Korea at a time when Korea was under the dominion of Imperial Japan. In his American history studies, he idealized America in its struggle to gain independence from the British. Rev. Hyun rejected colonialism, adopted Western ideas and converted to Christianity. Within time, he became pastor of the largest Protestant church in Korea. As Sunday School Superintendent for his denomination, he traveled extensively throughout Korea, preaching Christianity and its revolutionary ideas. He encouraged Koreans to reject the serfdom imposed by their Japanese overlords and to seek a new life of freedom. He encouraged his people to adopt Korea's Declaration of Independence on March 1, 1919, leading to demonstrations throughout Korea in the world's first non-violent pacifist revolution. Rev. Hyun continued to lead his people by founding the Republic of Korea, adopting a national constitution and electing a parliament for the provisional government. David Hyun, Soon Hyun's youngest son, keeps his memory alive with a vast collection of his memoirs and papers in a wing of this large magnificent home overlooking Silver Lake. It is a great story and one that may never be told. The David Hyun Residence is located at 1954 Redesdale Avenue in Silver Lake. The home showcases a magnificent art collection, memorabilia from ancient Korea incredible views from three levels, over 4,000 sq. feet of living space, and is a treat to visit.

Elevado de Castillo, Design Vidal & Patricia Callicott, Restoration 2007
The latest 'rescue and restore' project by the design team of Guy & Karen Vidal, the 'Elevado de Castillo' represents the team's 20th completed project in the Silver Lake/Echo Park communities. A severly neglected Spanish fourplex originally built in 1925, Karen fell in love with the architectural beauty of the octagonal turret, the tall ceilings and arched entryways, sparking her restoration-oriented imagination. The building was considered a 'tear-down' by everyone who was considering buying it, except the Vidals, who value preservation and restoration over the quick buck. The restoration effort began in February 2006. Karen invited Mosaic Artist Patricia Callicott to collaborate on the project. Early in April, Patti set up shop inside the Elevado ruins and over the next 10 months created dozens of complex mosaics--- all handcut from thousands of pieces of tile, marble and limestone. Many of the intricate cuts were performed with a regular tile saw. According to the Vidals, the blueprint for a 'Mediterranean Sanctuary' flew off the drafting table into a 'life of its own'; marble floors, custom colored concrete shower stalls, arched openings embedded with bricks, stained glass windows, metal tile and hand-crafted copper cabinet jewelry were the materials used in creating a hand-made house, rarely found in building projects today. Custom ironwork was a large component of the project. Ironworks expert Jesus Herrera used steel treated with brown patina on kitchen counter details, closet handing bars, bathroom sink legs, window rails, light fixtures, ornate balconies and the majestic front gates. Scenic Artist Alexandra Wiesenfeld painted a fresco crown for the exterior working off a 40 foot scaffold. Elevado de Castillo is located at 1515 Elevado Street.

Hyun Residence, David Hyun Architect 1993
One of the most striking and unusual homes in Silver Lake, Architect David Hyun designed his palace-by-the-lake for his personal residence in 1993. The style is reminiscent of the Japanese Village Plaza, David Hyun's pioneering work that propelled Little Tokyo from an urban slum into a chic inner city success story. Born in Korea, David is the son of the late, great Rev. Soon Hyun, Korean Patriot. Rev. Hyun was a college student in Korea at a time when Korea was under the dominion of Imperial Japan. In his American history studies, he idealized America in its struggle to gain independence from the British. Rev. Hyun rejected colonialism, adopted Western ideas and converted to Christianity. Within time, he became pastor of the largest Protestant church in Korea. As Sunday School Superintendent for his denomination, he traveled extensively throughout Korea, preaching Christianity and its revolutionary ideas. He encouraged Koreans to reject the serfdom imposed by their Japanese overlords and to seek a new life of freedom. He encouraged his people to adopt Korea's Declaration of Independence on March 1, 1919, leading to demonstrations throughout Korea in the world's first non-violent pacifist revolution. Rev. Hyun continued to lead his people by founding the Republic of Korea, adopting a national constitution and electing a parliament for the provisional government. David Hyun, Soon Hyun's youngest son, keeps his memory alive with a vast collection of his memoirs and papers in a wing of this large magnificent home overlooking Silver Lake. It is a great story and one that may never be told. The David Hyun Residence is located at 1954 Redesdale Avenue in Silver Lake. The home showcases a magnificent art collection, memorabilia from ancient Korea incredible views from three levels, over 4,000 sq. feet of living space, and is a treat to visit.

Pedroarena House, Henry Grey, Architect 1940
Up until about 1920 most of the Spanish style architecture found in Southern California could be defined as 'Mission Revival' or 'Pueblo Revival'. The Panama-Pacific Exposition buildings in San Diego, designed by Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue in 1915 created an explosion of interest in a more elaborate style of Spanish architecture that lasted up until the United States entered WWII. The Pedroarena House, designed for Carolina Pedroarena by Architect Henry Grey in 1940 is characteristic of the more elaborate Spanish Colonial Revival Style, borrowing details of Moorish and Renaissance inspiration. Dramatic details include complex roof forms of varying heights; lacy gates and balconies; hand-painted inlaid tiles and an enclosed courtyard with fountain, creating a theatrical effect found in great favor during the period. Art collector and architectural specialist Andy Jelmert restored the house during a two-year process, retaining and refurbishing classical details, adding modern appliances and conveniences. The Pedroarena House is located at 2464 Micheltorena Street in the Moreno Highlands.

Rene Faron Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1935
Actor Tom Bresnahan and his wife, Elizabeth French, have listed their Paul Williams-designed home in Silver Lake for $2,287,000. The 1935 Monterey Colonial, called the Rene Faron residence for its original owner, is on a knoll with lake, canyon, city and mountain views. An oversized motor court and landscaped grounds surround the restored house, which has formal living and dining rooms, a library, a wine cellar, an eat-in kitchen, four bedrooms and 3 1/2 bathrooms in more than 3,200 square feet of living space. The prolific Williams was known as an 'architect to the stars.' He designed homes for entertainer Frank Sinatra and actress Lucille Ball, among others, and worked on such L.A. landmarks as the flying saucer-like Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport. Bresnahan, 44, has numerous film and television credits including 'Private Practice' (2008), 'The Kingdom' (2007), 'Crossing Jordan' (2001, 2007), 'CSI:NY' (2004) and 'Ski School' (1990).

Salishan, Michael Clifton, Designer 1985-1987
'A Peaceful Place for Friends to Meet' (translation of the North American Indian word, Salishan) aptly describes this striking Santa Fe Style Architectural home designed by Michael Clifton. When Michael and his wife Maryann Kuk purchased the small (2500 sq.ft.), steep, triangular lot on West Silver Lake Drive in 1975 with the idea of building a house on it, most of their friends thought they were crazy. While neither one of them were 'particularly' fond of the Southwestern Adobe style, the couple took a decade of consideration to evaluate the site, and picked a style based on the way they thought the house should 'emerge from the site'. It took nearly two years to complete the project. While tall, Salishan hugs the steep terrain on a verdant hillside like an ancient sentinel, reminiscent of the great cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde, CO (built by the ancestral Hisatsinom in A.D. 600-A.D. 1300). The exterior is pure Southwestern Adobe in style, while the interior is mainly contemporary, with Southwestern influences. The large windows facing the east and the lake provide spectacular 'pictures' of the lake below and the mountains in the distance, maximizing the view while differentiating the interior spaces. The windows on the backside of the house are smaller, conserving energy. Salishan is located at 2011 West Silver Lake Drive. Michael Clifton is the son of Elmer Clifton, Silent Screen Star ('Birth of a Nation') and Director ('Down to the Sea in Ships') and Screen Playwright Helen Marie Clifton. Prior to his career as a designer specializing in homebuilding and remodeling, he helped launch the Los Angeles Music Center in 1964 and created the center's 'Performing Arts Magazine.' He and Maryann Kuk married in 1976. Maryann, a real estate agent for Housing Solutions, has been a leading advocate and pioneer on issues concerning Silver Lake's open reservoirs since 1987, the year the DWP announced plans to cover Ivanhoe Reservoir and build a filtration plant in the 6-acre meadow of Silver Lake Reservoir. Her activism, in concert with the Committee to Save Silver Lake's Reservoirs (www.CSSLR.org) has been instrumental in preserving Silver Lake's open reservoirs. She has served as President of the Silver Lake Residents Association (an early advocate for a LA Public Library branch for Silver Lake; groundbreaking in June 2007) and Founding Member of Friends of Silver Lake Library (FOSSL).

Villa Palombo-Togneri, Innocenti Palombo Design c.1927
A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece c. 1927. Popularized by the great classical architects of the time (like Paul Williams and Irving Gill), Mediterranean and Spanish style mansions were all the rage of the rich and famous of the period. Not much is known about the builder, however, it is said, that he hoped that in building this fine mansion others would follow suit. It must have been a little more than disappointing to realize the result. The house, located on Mayberry Street, is set in a neighborhood characterized by modest California bungalows, and yet it makes a statement. It is considered the 'Crown Jewel' of Mayberry Heights. Set on the eastern reaches of Silver Lake, a visit to the mansion is a step back in time: hand-painted murals and ceilings with allegorical themes, authentic art deco light fixtures and inlaid hardwood floors; coved ceilings with crown moldings; a 1929 Studebaker Touring Car can still be seen parked in the garage. Michael Togneri an immigrant from the small town of Coreglia Anteiminelli near Lucca, Italy purchased the home in the 1940s. Togneri came to the U.S. during the massive migration brought about the worldwide Great Depression. Arriving at Ellis Island, he moved on to Chicago, but found the weather depressing. Hearing that the Southern California climate would remind him of his home in Italy, he arrived in Los Angeles at the age of 21. He found employment washing window in the high-rises of downtown Los Angeles. The dangerous work fetched him the princely sum of 10 cents per window. Within a few short years the resourceful immigrant had his own business was able to send for his wife, Marina, who had remained behind in Italy, and their first child, Bianca, who was now seven years old. The purchase of the house on Mayberry Street symbolized Togneri's acheivement in realizing the 'American Dream' of owning his own home, similar to the style he remembered from his youth in Italy, with room to grow grapes and make fine wine. His family grew to include two sons and three daughters. He worked well into his '70s and retired, enjoying cooking, gardening, tending to his fruit and olive trees (some of which still remain on the property). A huge wooden wine vat remains in the underground basement. The Villa, which has been in the Togneri family for more than 60 years, was listed for sale in November 2008 for $990,900. It has five bedrooms, some with dressing rooms and cedar closets, a formal/parlor living room, formal dining room, breakfast room, a full basement and a level backyard, large enough for a swimming pool or tennis court. The Villa was dedicated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monumnet in 2010 No. 971), located at 2508 Mayberry Street in the Mayberry Heights neighborhood.

Jenkyns House, Josef Van der Kar, Architect, 1960

3Jenkyns House, Josef Van der Kar, Architect, 1960

Jenkyns House, Josef Van der Kar, Architect, 1960

Louis Armet & Eldon Davis, Architects

Astro Coffee Shop, as seen at night, April 8, 2010

Astro's Coffee Shop (formerly Conrad's), Louis Armet & Eldon Davis, Architects, 1958

Orange House, Leo Yuen Park, Architect 1983

Orange House, Leo Yuen Park 1983

Orange House, Leo Yuen Park, Architect 1983
Orange House, Leo Yuen Park, Architect 1983

A.E Morris Studio, Allyn E. Morris Architect 1958

A.E Morris Studio, Allyn E. Morris Architect
Allyn Morris' own home and studio, designed by the architect in 1958, The house is dramatically cantilevered into a Silver Lake hillside; noted architectural photographer Julius Shulman described the house as Morris' best composition. Trained as an engineer and first apprenticed to Lloyd Wright, Morris melded an industrial aesthetic with organic, Wrightian principles. The house is listed for sale (as of June 2010) and described in the listing, as "the studio with its mezzanine master, 2-story living room & open kitchen, dining area & lower ground-floor office opens like a magic glass lantern, affording views out to the San Gabriels. Meticulously restored & preserved by the current owner, & retaining original custom bathroom fixtures, mosaic, brickwork, glass and hardware, with an updated kitchen following the original blueprints (with approval from Morris). Counterweighted windows open the living space to a broad terrace with remarkable ease, an astonishing & ingenious variation on the California open-plan model." Located at 2390 Silver Ridge Avenue in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles.

A.E Morris Studio, Allyn E. Morris Architect 1958
Morris died in Fresno on July 31, 2009. No less than seven of Morris' architectural achievements are noted in David Gebhard and Robert Winter's "An Architectural Guide to Los Angeles". Of these, five are in Silver Lake: the architect's own studio/home (pictured here), the Murakami House and two other duplexes all of which are on Silver Ridge Avenue, and the Landa Apartments, on the corner of Griffith Park and Landa Street. Other notable works include the Aldemus Apartments in Highland Park and the Muller House in West Hollywood.

A.E Morris Studio, Allyn E. Morris Architect 1958

The Enduring Contribution of Richard Neutra

Ohara House, Richard Neutra 1959

Sokol House, Richard Neutra 1948

Akai House, Richard Neutra 1962

Inadomi House, Richard Neutra, Architect, 1960

Edward J. Flavin House, Richard Neutra Architect 1957

Flavin House, Richard Neutra 1957

Edward J. Flavin House, Richard Neutra Architect 1957

Yew House, Richard Neutra, Architect 1957

Kambara House, Richard Neutra, Architect, 1960

Yew House, Richard Neutra, Architect 1957

The Yew House is located at 2226 Silver Lake Blvd.

VDL Research House, Richard & Dion Neutra, Architects, 1932 & 1964

Cal Poly Architecture Students, VDL Research House, February 6. 2010.jpg
Cal Poly Architecture Students, VDL Research House, February 6. 2010.jpg 2009-03-03

VDL Research House, Richard & Dion Neutra, Architects, 1932 & 1964

Cal Poly Architecture students serve as docents for tours of the facility every Saturday. I met this young man and woman a couple of times; and hope to see them again!

VDL Research House, Richard & Dion Neutra, Architects, 1932 & 1964

VDL Research House.jpg
VDL Research House.jpg 2009-03-03

Koblick House, Richard Neutra 1937

Edward J. Flavin House, Richard Neutra Architect 1957

Kesling's Modern Structures

Skinner House, William Kesling, Designer 1937

The Skinner House on Easterly was one of the first houses in Silver Lake that I photographed. It recently went on the market (April 2005) giving me the opportunity to see it inside and out. The property has an essentially original look and feel with an up-to-date restoration and 'new' feel as if it had been built yesterday. I will leave in my original notes (see previous notes on the Skinner House with these additional remarks). The Skinner House is located at 1530 Easterly Terrace.

There are a number of original Keslings surviving in Silver Lake. There are a half a dozen around Easterly Terrace and Silverwood Terrace alone. Be sure and look for the telltale signs of a Kesling home: curving roof lines with matching balconies; horizontal bands of windows, creating an open, airy feeling without being overly exposed; frequent use of glass block, and most of the essential elements of the Streamline Moderne Style.

Snubbed by his peers because of a lack of formal schooling, Kesling's work has survived remarkably, a testament to his achievements. The Skinner House, located at 1530 Easterly Terrace, for example, was listed at $1,095,000 in April 2005 and was in escrow within the week. It will most certainly be one of the highest selling homes in area code 2006 to date.

There is a excellent book on William Kesling entitlted: 'Kesling Modern Structures: Popularizing Modern Design in Southern California' that makes for fascinating reading. The book chronicles the man and his work, beginning in Los Angeles in the 1930's his downfall and fall from grace, and his later re-emergence in San Diego during World War II where he experienced a new appreciation for his talents.

'Kesling Modern Structures: Popularizing Modern Design in Southern California 1943-1962' by Patrick Pascal, with photographs by Julius Shulman and David Sadofski, Balcony Press, Publisher, 2002.

Vanderpool House, William Kesling, Designer 1936

Built right next door to and a year before his Skinner House. The two houses sitting next to each other create a beautiful composition and mirror each other perfectly. There is often sitting water in the street that doubles the effect. It was probably Kesling's intention all along to build these two as a pair.

The Vanderpool House is located at 1536 Easterly Terrace.

Kibbe House, 1495 Easterly Terrace, William Kesling, Designer, 1937

The last home designed by William Kesling in Silver Lake and ironically, only a few doors away from his first Silver Lake home, the 'Model Home' at 1519 Easterly Terrace. One of Kesling's larger homes built during his Silver Lake Period (at 1863 sq. ft.). During his time in Los Angeles and vicinity, he erected over 450 structures including homes, stores and apartments, an incredible feat! (The period of time between his first building permit and his last was only two years!).

Model Home, 1519 Easterly Terrace, William Kesling, Architect, 1935

This home, Kesling's first, established him as a player in Los Angeles' Modernist Movement. Kesling's great contribution was that he made it possible for the average homebuyer to buy one of these sophisticated designs. The budget for this finely designed home was a mere $3,600 (or $2.55 per square foot; compared to over $10 per square foot for Richard Neutra's Lovell House).

Note the curving balconies and roof lines characteristic of Kesling's preferred California Streamline Moderne designs. A huge faceted wrap-around window gives a feeling of space and light. To the right is an eight-faceted master bedroom which enjoys the same magnificent canyon view.

Collins House, William Kesling, Builder/Designer 1936

I have driven by this house more than a hundred times, and always thought it was special: curved balcony railings, a few rounded stucco walls and an overall pleasant effect. My suspicions were confirmed today when I stopped by to compliment the owner on his beautiful house. It turned out that the gentleman I was speaking to was NOT the owner, but the father of the owner who asked me, 'Have I you ever heard of William Kesling?' I informed him that I indeed had, and he invited me in to see the interiors. The home had the unmistakeable quality of a Kesling Home: small but with elegant style. And of course it was in the area where there are about a half dozen or so surviving Keslings. He even showed me some fine old photographs taken by the great Julius Shulman of the house, and were given to the owner by Mr. Shulman.

The Collins House is located at 1709 Silverwood Terrace.

To learn more about the remarkable architecture and personality of William Kesling, there is a very fine book published by Balcony Press entitled: 'Kesling's Modern Structures: Popularizing Modern Design in Southern California 1934-1962', by Patrick Pascal, with photographs by Julius Shulman and David Sadofsky.

Wilson House, William Kesling, Builder/Designer, 1936

One of only a handful of remaining William Kesling's 'Modern Structures' built in Silver Lake between 1935 and 1937, the Wilson House is a fine expression of the 'Streamline Moderne' style that Kesling brought within reach of the average homebuyer in 1936 (the original cost: $3,590).

Many of Kesling's Silver Lake homes were built on relatively small, steep hillside lots. Note that the front of the house, as seen in this photo, has a narrow band of horizontal windows, elevated for privacy (while allowing light), while the back of the house has walls of glass to maximize the view, as will be seen in subsequent photographs.

The restored home, located at 1831 Fanning Street, has recently (October 2006) come on the market for $1,199,000. Thanks to Richard Stanley, the realtor who has the listing on the home, for giving me the opportunity to take these photos. Richard also advises that the house, described in Patrick Pascal's fascinating book on William Kesling, 'Kesling Modern Structures', as the 'Hunter House', is really the 'Wilson House', as described in the building permit. Thank you, Richard for your excellent research!

Wilson House William Kesling Builder/Designer, 1936

Exterior View (rear). This photo demonstrates Kesling's use of custom, horizontal casement windows, constructed in bands, a classic detail of the Streamline Moderne Style.

Wilson House, William Kesling Builder/Designer, 1936

Interior View. Note the 'ship's railing' to the lower level, a popular feature of the 'Streamline Moderne' style, evoking an ocean liner theme.

John Lautner's Silver Lake

Silvertop 1957

Martin Schall, Rita Wirth, Silvertop, John Lautner, Architect.jpgSM.jpg
Martin Schall, Rita Wirth, Silvertop, John Lautner, Architect.jpgSM.jpg 2006-11-30

Raphael Soriano in Silver Lake

Lipetz House, Raphael Soriano, Architect 1936
Martin Schall accompanied me on a visit to the Lipetz House during his annual tour of Los Angeles Architecture, 2006-12-05

Lipetz House, Raphael Soriano, Architect 1936

View of the Reflecting Pool with the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance.

Lipetz House, Raphael Soriano Architect, 1936

I had the opportunity to re-visit the famed Lipetz House since I first photographed it in 2003. The Raphael Soriano masterpiece was listed for sale for the first time (March 2006) since 1940, and provided a rare opportunity to see the original interiors.

Here we see the famed Music Room that accomodated Mrs. Lipetz's Bechstein grand piano and the salon that seated up to twenty guests for her recitals.

The Lipetz House is located at 1843 N. Dillon Street. In April 2007, it was undergoing substantial renovation.

Meyers House, Raphael Soriano, Architect 1938

This lovely home designed in 1938 is a classic example of Soriano's work. He received his architecture degree from the University of Southern California and worked for both Rudolph Schindler and Richard Neutra before opening his own practice in 1936. Although he designed 150 and built 38 projects during his career, only a handful survive. He moved to Tiburon, CA in 1953 where he designed and built housing for developer Joseph Eichler as well as the IBM Research Laboratory in San Jose.

His work is becoming better known since the publication of the book, 'Raphael Soriano' by author Wolfgang Wagener. Published by Phaidon, September 2002. Hardcover 224 pages.

*NOTE: There seems to be a bit of confusion about this house. It is listed in 'An Architectural Guidebook to Los Angeles' by David Gebhard & Robert Winter, published by Gibbs Smith, however, the definite book on Soriano's work, 'Rapahel Soriano' by Wolfgang Wagener published by Phaidon Press, lists the Meyers House at 850 Avenue 37 in Los Angeles. Surely there is some explanation for this discrepancy! Did J.A. Meyers have Soriano build two houses for him, one in Silver Lake and one in Eagle Rock? While there is no mention of the Angelus house in Wagener's book, I was able to obtain a copy of the building permit which verifies the fact that Raphael Soriano did indeed apply for a building permit for 1607 Angelus Avenue for a J.A. Meyers in 1938.

Meyers House 1.jpg

I had the opportunity to visit the Meyers House, situated at 1607 Angelus Avenue in Silver Lake as part of the photography work that I was honored to do for the Committee to Save Silver Lake's Reservoirs (CSSLR) 2006 Home Tour scheduled for September 30, 2006. (See related article in the 'Community News' Section of this website). Many of the owners of these fabulous homes were kind enough to give me the opportunity to photograph their interiors.

For more information about the architect, Raphael Soriano, please refer to my original notes on the Meyers House (the first entry in the 'Silver Lake Architecture' page of this website) and additional notes regarding Soriano's first commission the 'Lipetz House' also featured. For more reading on the architect, the excellent book entitled 'Raphael Soriano' by Wolfgang Wagner, makes for enjoyable reading. The Meyers House is also featured in Barbara Bestor's new book 'Bohemian Modern: Living in Silver Lake', published by Regan Books, 2006.

Meyers House, Raphael Soriano, Architect 1938

An interior view, demonstrating the intimate relationship between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Austrian House, Raphael Soriano Architect 1937; Chris Salay, Remodel 2006-

This lovely home was designed by Soriano in 1938 for attorney, Spencer Austrian. The young attorney wanted a 'place to relax, sleep and play, and also a rental; the two units to be completely separated and with separate entrances.'

The home featured a French door opening onto a terrace and garden. A door from the living room opened onto a roof deck for outdoor entertaining. The home was originally built for $5,000, including architect's fees, built-in bookcases of mahogany and especially designed indirect and direct lighting.

This property is spectacularly situated with unobstructed views of downtown Los Angeles. It shows the influence of Richard Neutra, for whom Soriano apprenticed without pay for several months.

Architect Chris Salay, with his wife Stephanie, purchased the property in 2004 for their personal residence, and have been meticulously restoring it ever since.

Austrian House, 3056 Landa Street, Raphael Soriano, Architect, 1937

The Austrian House, 3056 Landa Street in Silver Lake.

Harwell Hamilton Harris in Silver Lake

Hansen Residence Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1950-51

Hansen Residence Harwell Hamilton Harris, Architect (1950-51)

Interior view of the living room.

Hansen Residence Harwell Hamilton Harris, Architect (1950-51)

View from the front deck overlooking Silver Lake.

Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951

Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951
Hopmans House, Harwell H. Harris, Architect 1951. View from the rear garden.

Hopmans House; Yoram Roman at home with Martin Schall, Nov. 15, 2009
Martin Schall and I paid a visit to Yoram Roman at home on Nov. 15, 2009.

Briski Experimental House, Sean Briski, Architect 2006

Jacobson Residence, Edward H. Fickett Architect 1951

View from the pool. The reflected light in the late afternoon sun demonstrates the architect's ability to capture the essence of the California "dream" house.

Jacobson Residence, Edward H. Fickett Architect 1951

The Integrated Green Design of Silver Lake Library

Sustainable Silver Lake: Bringing Green Power & Knowledge to Our Community

Meet the chief instigators of Green Power in Silver Lake: the steering commitee of Sustainable Silver Lake, with two (of the 3) principals of the architectural team, M2A Architects, Tom Michali (5th from left, standing and Barry Milofsky (2nd from right, standing, next to Jenna Didier of Materials & Applications. Others in the group include Meher McArthur, (second from left), organizer of the lecture series and "Green Editor" of the Los Feliz Ledger, and Architect Leonardo Chalupowicz, standing next to Meher.

Meher McArthur, Sustainable Silver Lake Lecture Series, February 6, 2010

Architect Tom Michali, M2A Architects, Februayr 6, 2010

Mehen McArthur welcoming Tom Michali to the Sustainable Silver Lake Lecture Series, February 6, 2010

Architect Tom Michali (M2A Architects) Lecture at Silver Lake Library

McDowell House, Barbara Bestor, Architect 2004-2009

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2288 Earl, Barbara Bestor, Architect.jpg5.jpgSM.jpg 2008-05-06

Eugene Chow Residence, Eugene Chow Architect, 1988

Urban Operations- John Southern, Architect 2004

Architect John Southern at home, July25, 2007

The Design Studio & Residence of John Southern, Architect, Urban Operations, 2004

Urban Operations- John Southern, Architect 2004

View from the Loft showing the flexible work/living space.

Urban Operations- John Southern, Architect 2004

Interior View. A bar with stools separates and dileneates the kitchen from the office and private quarters.

Day/Hachigian Residence, 2518 Micheltorena Street, Joe Day, Architect

2518 Micheltorena Joe Day.jpg
2518 Micheltorena Joe Day.jpg 2006-07-22

Barton Choy, Choy Associates Architects

Marylin Choy Residence, Barton Choy, Architect 1977

Barton Choy designed this home for his sister, Marylin in 1977, five years after completing the home he built for himself, next door. The two sde-by-side residences have many of the same attributes; extensive use of redwood and glass give them both a distinctive alpine look.

The Marylin Choy Residence is located at 3025 Windsor Avenue in the Primrose Hill section of Silver Lake.

2363 Moreno Drive- Barton Choy, Architect 1981

This handsomely designed modern home has held my interest for some time. I was not surprised to learn that Architect Barton Choy designed it; the cylindrical tower seems to be a favorite element. The architect used the same device for his personal residence at 3035 Windsor Avenue.

Bart & Ildiko Choy Residence, Barton Choy, Architect, 3035 Windsor Av. 1972.jpg
Bart & Ildiko Choy Residence, Barton Choy, Architect, 3035 Windsor Av. 1972.jpg 2006-11-21

'Lexan MacCarthy Residence' Lorcan O'Herlihy, Architect 2000

Irish-born, Malibu-based Lorcan O'Herlihy designed the Lexan MacCarthy Home on a steeply pitched lot in the Moreno Highlands of ; the house has a dramatic presence. It was featured on the 2004 AIA “Hills of Silver Lake” Home Tour. The house is located at 3228 Fernwood Avenue.

The been recognized internationally with a number of exhibitions and publications including the New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Metropolis Magazine, Architectural Record, Architectural Review, and a book on his completed works. In 2004, he was recognized as on of 8 “emerging voices of architecture” by the Architectural League of New York; his firm has earned 26 national and international awards including seven AIA/LA Design Awards.

O’Herlihy has taught and lectured at a variety of institutions, including the Southern Institute of Architecture [SCI-Arc], Cranbrook Academy of Art, Michigan, and the National Building Museum, Washington D.C.

He worked at the office of I.M. Pei and Partners on the in and the in , receiving a National Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects.

Neutra Lecture at the Silver Lake Library, February 2010

Neutra Lecture SL Library February 13, 2010
Participants in Raymond Neutra's Lecture at the Silver Lake Library gather in the courtyard for a group picture, commemorating the event, February 13, 2010.

Natalie & Vladimir Fet, VDL Research House February 13, 2010

Dr. Raymond Neutra, Silver Lake Library, February 13, 2010

Rommel Ordoyo with Dr. Raymond Neutra, VDL Research House, February 2010

Architect Anthony Zubick with his wife, VDL Research House, February 13, 2010
I had the pleasure of meeting the architect during a tour of the VDL Research House on February 13, 2010 (I didn't catch his wife's name)!

Architect Dion Neutra & Lynn Smart-Neutra, VDL Research House, February 13, 2010

Architect Dion Neutra, VDL Research House, February 13, 2010

Brothers Dr. Raymond and Dion Neutra, VDL Research House, February 13, 2010

Dr. Raymond Neutra, Silver Lake Library, February 13, 2010

Lynn Smart-Neutra, VDL Research House, February 13, 2010

Marilyn Friedman (on the right) with a friend, Neutra Lecture at the Silver Lake Library, February 13, 2010

Neutra Lecture Silover Lake Library February 13, 2010

Peggy Bauhaus, Neutra Lecture at the Silver Lake Library, February 13, 2010

Raymond Neutra Lecture, Silver Lake Library, February 13, 2010

VDL Research House Tour, February 13, 2010

VDL Research House, February 13, 2010

Peggy Bauhaus may be seen conversing with Neutra scholar Barbara Lamprecht through the glass.

VDL Research House, February 13, 2010

Pictured are Karen Iwamiya, (extreme left); Peggy Bauhaus (3rd from the left), Dr. Raymond Neutra, Lynn Smart-Neutra, and Rommell Ordoya (extreme left) at the VDL Research House, Februay 13, 2010.

N-HN House, aNX Architecture, Aaron Neubert, Architect 2007

View of the interior, showing the central staircase and the open arrangement of the main floor.

N-HN House, aNX Architecture, Aaron Neubert, Architect 2007

The indoor-outdoor relationship of the N-HN House made possible by the large double-leafed pocket doors, as seen in this photo.

Aaron Neubert, Architect AIA

Architect Aaron Neubert, shown at the N-HN House in Silver Lake in July 2007

Gregory Ain in Silver Lake

Orans House, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1941

Becker House, Gregory Ain, Architect 1938-40; Barry Milofsky, M2A Architects, Restoration 2003-07

Tierman House, Gregory Ain, FAIA, Architect, 1940

Daniels House, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1939

Ain & Garrott Studio, Ain & Garrott, Architects, 1950

Gregory Ain and James Garrott designed this mid-century modernist building for their offices in 1950. Garrott was one of the few African-American architects working in California at the time.

The studio is located at 2311 Hyperion Avenue.

Avenal Cooperative Housing Project, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1947

Ain & Garrott Studio, 2311 Hyperion Avenue, Ain & Garrott, Architects, 1950

View of one of the private courtyards.

Avenal Cooperative Housing Project, Gregory Ain, Architect, 1947

Private courtyards and patios were integrated into each of the project's studios, creating a unique indoor/outdoor living experience.

Sean Briski Residence II, Sean Briski, Architect 2006

Sean Briski Residence II, Sean Briski, Architect 2006
DSC_0016.JPG 2006-02-14

Sean Briski Residence II, Sean Briski Architect, 2006

Sean Briski Residence II, Sean Briski, Architect 2006

View from the street, approaching from the north. The alligator' screen wall may be observed on the right side. Note the varying qualities of the horizontal volumes.

Sean Briski Residence II, Sean Briski, Architect 2006

View of the 2-Story Living Room. Note the basketball hoops suspended from the guardrail.

Greg Wong Residence, Barbara Bestor Architect

Gregory Wong Residence, Barbara Bestor, Architect 2002

Greg Wong Residence, Barbara Bestor Architect

Rudolph Schindler's Silver Lake

How House, R.M. Schindler, Architect 1925

In the How House, Schindler has addressed the challenges of a steep hillside lot in Silver Lake with the needs of his client, physician James Eads How, and has created a remarkable composition. Rather than the typical arrangement of placing the house squarely in line with the curb, Schindler has it placed on a diagonal. The ingenious interplay of glass and redwood provides a sense of transparency while affording privacy that harmonizes with the setting.

The How House is located at 2422 Silver Ridge Avenue in Silver Lake. It has undergone extensive renovation since purchased in late 2003. For more information about the architect, the book 'R.M.Schindler' by James Steele is highly recommended.

Falk Apartments, R.M. Schindler, Architect 1939

The Falk Apartments demonstrate the architect's skill in tackling a difficult hillside site. Each apartment in the complex has its own private garden and roof terrace, a rarity in apartment living. Located at 3631 Carnation Avenue.

Droste House, R.M. Schindler Architect, 1940

McAlmon Residence, Rudolph Schindler 1936

This striking property demonstrated Schindler's ability to take a small insignificant single family home and transform it into a hip International style duplex. With the addition of overhanging roofs and other Schindler trademarks, the architect has created a very pleasing design.

The garage and old house occupy the front of the lot. A new living room enlarges the house and serves to 'mask the old front.' The new construction was placed in the back of the lot in order to take advantage of the spectacular mountain vews to the east.

The McAlmon Residence is located at 2717-2721 Waverly Drive.

McAlmon Residence, R.M. Schindler 1936

Bubeshko Apartments, Rudolph Schindler, Architect 1938-1941

Manola Court Apartment Building, R.M. Schindler, Architect, 1926-1940

Wilson House, R.M. Schindler Architect 1887-1953

Oliver House, Rudolph Schindler, Architect, 1933

Yates Studio, R.M. Schindler, Architect, 1938-1947

Peter Yates was a music critic for Arts & Architecture Magazine and wanted Schindler to 'create a studio space' for live performance of modern composers. Originally they planned to build a studio behind the house, however Shindler came up with the idea of putting the studio on top of the house to take advantage of the views.
The Yates Studio is located at 1735 Micheltorena Street in the Moreno Highlands of Silver Lake.

Westby House, Rudolf M. Schindler, 1938-1949

Originally a duplex, Schindler's design evolved into a single family home to fit the owner's changing circumstances. Sleeping quarters, a studio and library were added above the garage. The overall design reflects Schindler's late de Stijl influence.

Located at 1805 Maltman Avenue, the home is currently on the market for $1,095,000 (November 8, 2009).

2 Houses on Bancroft Avenue, Leonardo Chalupowicz, Architect 2004

2216 Bancroft, Leonardo Chalupowicz, Architect 2004

2222 Bancroft Avenue, Leonardo Chalupowicz, 2004

2222 Bancroft Avenue, Leonardo Chalupowicz

Robinson Residence, Robert Nicolais, Architect 1990

Interior View of the Great Room overlooking the downtown Los Angeles skyline. The swing back chairs in the foreground are from the Kings Road House.

Aron Warner Residence, Mike Ferguson (Space International), Architects (Remodel) 2007

The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman

Woodbury Vice President David Rosen with Architect William Krisel & Friends, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Krisel never won as much acclaim as Richard Neutra or Rudolph Schindler, but it was Krisel who helped to popularize it, bringing the design ethos to the middle class. He helped bring affordable housing with style to Southern California, principally to and the in the 1950s.

Event Chair Emily Bills with Ron Fields, Judy McKee and Craig Krull

"The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman", MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010
Architect William Krisel with friends, Julie D. Taylor and John Crosse, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21,2010.

Kimberli Meyer, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010
MAK Center Director Kimberli Meyer introducing "The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman", Schindler House, February 21, 2010.

Getty Research Institute Director, Wim de Wit
"The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman", benefit for MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010. Wim de Wit is head of the Department of Architecture & Contemporary Art at the Getty Research Institute.

Architect William Krisel, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Architect Steven Ehrlich, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Architect William Krisel with Getty Research Institute's Wim de Wit, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Architect Steven Ehrlich, the Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman

Los Angeles Magazine Executive Editor Mary Melton, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Woodbury University's Rose Nielsen, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Woodbury University Vice President David Rosen, "The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman"

Architect William Krisel & Wim de Wit, "The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman", February 21, 2010

Architect John Southern, Architectural Historian Emily Bills with Woodbury University's Rose Nielsen & Dean Norman Miller, Woodbury University School of Architecture

Architect William Krisel with Julie Taylor and John Crosse, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

MAK Center for Art & Architecture Shulman Event, February 21, 2010

Rose Nielsen and Friends, "The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman" at the MAK Center, February 21, 2010

Mimi Teller with Judy McKee and a friend, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Schindler House, February 21, 2010

Julius Shulman Event at the Schindler House in West Hollywood, February 21, 2010
Julius Shulman Enduring Contribution (18).JPG 2009-03-19

The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Los Angeles Magazine Executive Editor Mary Melton with Donna Locke, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Dr. David Rosen (center) with John Crosse, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Architect William Krisel with Friends, The Enduring Contribution of Julius Shulman, MAK Center, February 21, 2010

Judy McKee with Ron Fields, Julius Shulman Event at MAK Center, February 21, 2010

Judy McKee with Craig Krull & Ron Fields, February 21, 2010

Julius Shulman Enduring Contribution (28).JPG
Julius Shulman Enduring Contribution (28).JPG 2009-03-19

Kimberli Meyer, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Philiip Ethington, "The Trajectory of Julius' Life"

Architect Steven Ehrlich, MAK Center for Art & Architecture, February 21, 2010

Hyun Residence, David Hyun Architect 1993

David Hyun House, Photo by Julius Shulman + Juergen Nogai
The architect's home, as seen from West Silver Lake Drive. The original photo, taken by Julius Shulman and Juergen Nogai, was a gift from the architect after our interview for 'Who's Who in Silver Lake'.

David Hyun House, Interior
The dramatic living room with its unique vaulted ceiling. The home serves as a repository of memorabilia from colonial Korea (Korea declarared Independence from Japan on March 1, 1919) and the archives of Hyun's father, Rev. Soon Hyun. I had the pleasure of meeting the architect while campaigning for a seat on the first Silver Lake Neighborhood Council. Walking door-to-door with my wife Donna Jean, we spotted Hyun and his wife Mary near the front of his house on Redesdale Avenue. A gregarious fellow, Hyun invited us in for tea and a chat; we spent an hour or two as he recalled his life story: the influence of his father, Korean Patriot Soon Hyun, growing up in Hawaii, immigrating to the mainland and how he became an architect. After winning a seat on the governing board, Hyun became an enthusiastic supporter of the Silver Lake Beautification Committee; hosting one of our first community meetings in this room. He gave me this photo, taken by Julius Shulman and Juergen Nogai as a gift after our interview for 'Who's Who in Silver Lake'.

Historic Monuments

Villa Palombo-Togneri, Innocenti Palombo, Designer 1927
A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece c. 1927. Popularized by the great classical architects of the time (like Paul Williams and Irving Gill), Mediterranean and Spanish style mansions were all the rage of the rich and famous of the period. Not much is known about the builder, however, it is said, that he hoped that in building this fine mansion others would follow suit. It must have been a little more than disappointing to realize the result. The house, located on Mayberry Street, is set in a neighborhood characterized by modest California bungalows, and yet it makes a statement. It is considered the 'Crown Jewel' of Mayberry Heights. Set on the eastern reaches of Silver Lake, a visit to the mansion is a step back in time: hand-painted murals and ceilings with allegorical themes, authentic art deco light fixtures and inlaid hardwood floors; coved ceilings with crown moldings; a 1929 Studebaker Touring Car can still be seen parked in the garage. Michael Togneri an immigrant from the small town of Coreglia Anteiminelli near Lucca, Italy purchased the home in the 1940s. Togneri came to the U.S. during the massive migration brought about the worldwide Great Depression. Arriving at Ellis Island, he moved on to Chicago, but found the weather depressing. Hearing that the Southern California climate would remind him of his home in Italy, he arrived in Los Angeles at the age of 21. He found employment washing window in the high-rises of downtown Los Angeles. The dangerous work fetched him the princely sum of 10 cents per window. Within a few short years the resourceful immigrant had his own business was able to send for his wife, Marina, who had remained behind in Italy, and their first child, Bianca, who was now seven years old. The purchase of the house on Mayberry Street symbolized Togneri's acheivement in realizing the 'American Dream' of owning his own home, similar to the style he remembered from his youth in Italy, with room to grow grapes and make fine wine. His family grew to include two sons and three daughters. He worked well into his '70s and retired, enjoying cooking, gardening, tending to his fruit and olive trees (some of which still remain on the property). A huge wooden wine vat remains in the underground basement. The Villa, which has been in the Togneri family for more than 60 years, was listed for sale in November 2008 for $990,900. It has five bedrooms, some with dressing rooms and cedar closets, a formal/parlor living room, formal dining room, breakfast room, a full basement and a level backyard, large enough for a swimming pool or tennis court. The Villa was dedicated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monumnet in 2010 No. 971), located at 2508 Mayberry Street in the Mayberry Heights neighborhood of Silver Lake.

Villa Palombo-Togneri, Innocenti Palombo, Designer 1927
The formal dining room, with art deco chandelier, fitted draperies, inlaid floors, built-ins with leaded and beveled glass and a fancy, hand-painted crown molding.

Villa Palombo-Togneri, Innocenti Palombo, Designer 1927
The villa is an extraordinary step back in time; surviving as a time capsule. and conveyig a formal presence in desgn as well as a lifestyle of its long time owners who lived in a manner that gave them a taste of their original homeland in a place far away from their birth.

Villa Palombo-Togneri, Innocenti Palombo, Designer 1927
Fine fresco details adorning the coved ceiling (above the fireplace).

Villa Palombo-Togneri, Innocenti Palombo, Designer 1927
An original art deco chandelier is a focal point of the main drawing room.

2010-07-26

PB130061.JPG
PB130061.JPG 2008-11-13

Seffker front rendering flat 1.jpg
Seffker front rendering flat 1.jpg 2008-11-13

Auburn 7, Ana Henton & Gregory Williams, MASS Architecture

Auburn 7, Ana Henton & Gregory Williams, MASS Architecture
Ana Henton (along with partner Gregory Williams) continues to make her mark on the Silver Lake architecture scene with the newly completed Auburn 7 Project. One of the first small lot subdivision projects in Los Angeles, Auburn 7 began just when banks started putting a leash on construction lending. Taking over the project from another architectural firm, MASS Architecture had only 6 months to show lenders sufficient progress in order to keep a loan commitment. 'The developers were looking for us to come up with something special and unique' Ana Henton writes, describing the challenges of the project, not like some of the cookie-cutter developments that have sprouted up recently'. The projects owners, Todd Wexman and Michael Kyle, were looking for us to design, in their words, 'something that would add to Silver Lake's world-wide reputation for classic modernist architecture.' The seven townhomes in the Auburn 7 Project incorporate eco-friendly 'green' building technology and practices, including solar panels on the roof and bamboo plywood cabinetry. The living rooms have folding doors that open to an outside seating area with a fireplace. Second floor planters right outside floor to ceiling windows help to create an indoor-outdoor living experience. The lot is actually the building itself' Henton explains, 'The garden in front is actually city-owned property. The city allowed us to use the land in front of the project for a garden, but it is not actually part of the site'. The Auburn 7 Project is located at 2748 Auburn Street.

John Seffker Residence, Bob Teubner, Architect to be completed in early 2011

John Seffker Residence, Robert Teubner, Architect (under construction September 2010)

Jones House, Escher GuneWardena Architecture 2009

Jones Residence, Escher GuneWardena Architecture 2009
Crowning the hilltop on one of Silver Lake's steepest streets, the Jones Residence appears to float among the clouds. At once dramatic and arresting, the street facade is cut at a sharp angle, maximizing the view while satisfying height restrictions.

Swan House, Lee + Mundwiler Architects 2010.

Swan House, Lee + Mundwiler Architects 2010
Designed by award-winning architects Lee + Mundwiler, this house features an open floor plan, natural wood floors, imported stone, polished concrete floors and walls, and finishes of the highest quality. The Santa Monica-based architectural firm with principal architects, Stephen Mundwiler and Cara Lee have won many awards, including an AIA National Honor Award and AIA California Merit Award for the design of the Central Park of the New Radiant City in Shenzan, China; an AIA National Housing Award for the design of the “Coconut House” in Los Angeles; and an AIA National Honor Award and AIA California Merit Award for the design of the Bundesplatz-Swiss Government Plaza in Bern Switzerland. The house was most recently listed for sale for $1,195,000. Located at 2955 Swan Place in Silver Lake.

Ross House, 2371 Cove Avenue, Eric Lloyd Wright, Architect

Ross House, Eric Lloyd Wright, Architect
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright's grandson, Eric Lloyd Wright, the Ross House is a real eyecatcher with its massive balconies and lush landscaping. The architect is founder of the Wright Way Organic Resource Center in Malibu, CA. focusing on the evolution of Organic Architecture and Green Building Design. His design philosophy is rooted in the integration of ecology, social responsibility and beauty. During Eric's early years in architecture, he was an apprentice to his grandfather, Frank Lloyd Wright and his father, Lloyd Wright. Located at 2371 Cove Ave.

Rene Faron Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect

Rene Faron Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1935

Rene Faron Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1935
Actor Tom Bresnahan who currently owns the house with his wife Elizabeth French was kind enough to give me a tour of the house prior to putting it on the market in October 2010. The house is handsomely updated and quite glamorous. The house is no longer painted pink, Bresnahan was told by the previous owners that 'Williams wanted the house to be pink, the color of the Beverly Hills Hotel, and he was not to change it'. 'The new, off-white color, I think is much more elegant.

Rene Faron Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1935

It gave me a great sense of personal joy to discover this Paul R. Williams home, surprisingly the only one in Silver Lake created during his long and illustrious career. The home was built for Restaurateur Rene Faron and his wife in 1935. Designed in an elegant traditional style, the home is set back from the street in a semi-enclosed motor courtyard.

Known as the 'Architect of the Stars', Williams created over 2000 private residences during a career that spanned almost sixty years. Among his celebrity clients were Anthony Quinn, Bert Lahr, Danny Thomas, and Zsa Zsa Gabor. His most well-known commercial projects were the futuristic Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport and the United Nations Building in Paris.

Williams was one of the most highly regarded architects that defined the Southern California lifestyle for a culture obsessed with a romantic notion of Hollywood. His achievements was all the more extraordinary given that he was an African American. Through perserverance, he overcame the many obstacles that confronted him. He was the first African American to become a member of the American Institute of Architects; in 1957 he became the first black elected to the distinguished AIA College of Fellows.

The Rene Faron Residence is located at 2081 Redcliff Street in Silver Lake.

2657 Ivanhoe Drive, Robert Byrd, Architect (Remodel) 1956

Ivanhoe Mid-Century, Robert Byrd, Architect (Remodel) 1956
Originally built for Peter Pontrelli in 1952 by builder C.J. Nutsch, the residence underwent a spectacular redesign in 1956 by noted architect Robert Byrd. The defining feature of the mid-century California Ranch design is a huge central bay window affording commanding views of Silver Lake. Architect Robert Byrd is best known for his design of the Sharon Tate Mansion on Cielo Drive in Benedict Canyon (demolished in 1994) and Frank Zappa's notorious 'Rock and Roll Tree House' in Laurel Canyon. The residence was last sold in 2004 for just over $1M. Located at 2657 Ivanhoe Drive.

Leonardo Chalupowicz

Leonardo Chalupowicz' Home & Garden
Leonardo Chalupowicz' Home & Garden

View from Leonardo Chalupowicz' Home & Garden
View from Leonardo Chalupowicz' Home 10-24-2010

Cheryl Revkin, Michael St. Onge & Charles Herman-Wurmfeld
Silver Lakers Cheryl Revkin, Michael St. Onge & Charles Herman-Wurmfeld gather for conversation during the 2010 Eastside Eco Tour at the Chalupowitz House.

Donna Locke greets Leonardo Chalupowicz & Michael St. Onge, October 24, 2010
Donna Locke greets Architect Leonardo Chalupowicz & Michael Saint-Onge during the Eastside Eco Tour, October 24, 2010.

Ivanhoe Drive Mid-Century, Mia Lehrer, Landscape Design, April Greiman, Color Design

Mid-Century Modern Home, Mia Lehrer, Landscape Architect

Ivanhoe Drive Mid-Century Modern, Mia Lehrer, Landscape Architect
Featured in Featured in Sunset Magazine and recipient of the “Western Garden Design Award of Excellence” the Mid-Century Modern home at 2651 Ivanhoe Drive has been dramatically updated, thanks to the vision of AIGA design medalist April Greiman who designed the interior colors and the inviting gardens, designed by Landscape Architect Mia Lehrer. The hous is located at 2651 Ivanhoe Drive.

Anais Nin-Rupert Pole House, Eric Lloyd Wright, Architect 1962

Eric Lloyd Wright with son Devon Wright, Anais Nin-Rupert Pole House, November 20, 2010

A favorite portrait of father and son, on the built-in sofa designed by Wright for the Anais Nin-Rupert Pole Residence in Silver Lake.