LA's Iconic Homes
Los Angeles, a city known for its diverse architecture, boasts a wealth of iconic homes that encapsulate various styles and eras. From the Spanish Revival style to Mid Century Modern marvels, these homes stand as a testament to LA's rich architectural history. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a curious traveler, touring these landmark homes offers a unique insight into the city's cultural and historical landscape.
Unveiling LA's Architectural Gems
Visiting LA's landmark homes is akin to stepping into a living museum. Each home tells a unique story, shaped by its architect, inhabitants, and the era it was built in. Let's embark on a virtual tour of some of LA's most iconic homes you can explore in real life.
Adamson House: A Malibu Historic Home
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Malibu Lagoon, the Adamson House offers more than just breathtaking views. Designed by Stiles Oliver Clements in 1930, this Spanish Revival style home showcases priceless Malibu Potteries tilework, from the hallway floors to the bathroom and kitchen walls.
Visitors can admire the original furnishings, including beautiful paintings by Danish artists Ejnar Hansen and Peter Nielsen. While exterior photography is allowed, interior photography isn't. The Adamson House is open for tours on specific days, with varying ticket prices for adults and children.
Ávila Adobe: The Oldest House in LA
At 204 years old, the Ávila Adobe holds the distinction of being the oldest standing house in LA. Built by pioneer rancher Francisco José Ávila, the city's mayor in 1810, the house served as Commodore Robert Stockton's headquarters during the Mexican-American War. Today, the adobe stands as a testament to LA's early history and is open for tours daily.
Eames House: A Pacific Palisades Landmark
The steel-and-glass Eames House in Pacific Palisades is a significant contributor to 20th-century design. Designed by Charles and Ray Eames, the house was left largely intact after the designers' death, with the living room contents carefully cataloged and recreated inside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Today, the house offers a glimpse into their innovative approach to design and is open for guided exterior tours on specific days.
Fitzpatrick-Leland House: A Hollywood Hills West Historic Home
Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, the Fitzpatrick-Leland House stands as a testament to Rudolf Schindler's architectural genius. The house, built as a model home in 1936, features a tri-level, L-shaped design that embraces the tranquility of its surroundings.
While the Fitzpatrick-Leland House offers a historical overview of its original inhabitants, it's the house's unique architecture that steals the show. The property, now operated by the MAK Center for Art and Architecture, requires advance appointments for visits.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Hollyhock House: An East Hollywood Historic Landmark
The Hollyhock House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in LA. Built in 1918 for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall, the house blends Maya, Spanish Revival, and Japanese architectural styles. Today, the house is open for various docent-led tours, showcasing its intricate woodwork, art glass, and monumental fireplace.
Gamble House: A Pasadena Historic Home
The Gamble House, designed by architects Charles and Henry Greene in 1908, is a stunning example of the Arts and Crafts movement. This historic house is known for its intricate woodwork, stained glass, and custom furnishings. Today, various docent-led tours are available, giving visitors a chance to admire the house's architectural brilliance.
Greystone Mansion and Gardens: A Beverly Hills Historical Landmark
Also known as the Doheny Mansion, the Greystone Mansion and Gardens have often been a symbol of affluence in numerous movies, TV shows, and advertisements. The mansion, built in 1929, is open for self-guided tours of the first floor and the newly restored theater during the first weekend of each month.
Lummis Home (El Alisal): A Mount Washington Historical Landmark
Built by Charles Lummis, a writer, photographer, and Native American advocate, the Lummis Home (El Alisal) is an architectural marvel. The house, constructed over 15 years, combines Craftsman ideals, Pueblo building traditions, and quirky Mission Revival features. Today, the house is open for free self-guided tours on specific days.
Neutra VDL Studio and Residences: A Silver Lake Historic Home
Designed by Richard Neutra as a live-work experiment, the Neutra VDL Studio and Residences is a classic example of Mid Century Modern architecture. The house is open for guided tours on specific days, allowing visitors to experience Neutra's innovative approach to design firsthand.
Stahl House: A Hollywood Hills West Landmark Home
Pierre Koenig's Stahl House, also known as Case Study House No. 22, is one of LA's most iconic homes. Famous for its cantilevered living room and pool, the house offers breathtaking views of the city. The Stahl House is open for afternoon and evening tours on specific days, with advanced booking required.
Visiting Los Angeles's historic houses is a great way to learn about the city's design evolution. The architectural and cultural development of Los Angeles is reflected in each individual residence. Seeing the city through the eyes of its residents is a great opportunity for everybody, from architecture buffs to curious tourists.