Friday, November 18, 2011

"EAMES: The Architect and The Painter" Doc Released


"EAMES: The Architect and The Painter" released today in limited theaters.  Directed by Bill Jersey, this 1 hour 23 minute feature documentary is narrated by James Franco.  For those of us in Los Angeles, we have it up on one screen at the moment over at Laemmle's Music Hall 3, Beverly Hills.  The smart and cohesive film looks at the accomplishments and influence the design studio had over many industries for over four decades.  The Eames design Studio located at 901 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA seems as if it were the true precursor to today's major advertising and design firms. 
Charles and Ray Eames in their Studio, Venice, CA
For any purists out there, you can brush up on the film making of Ray and Charles Eames in their 1977 film entitled, "The Powers of Ten" explores dimension and sends us up into the galaxies above, only then to have us plummet back to earth at rapid pace and back into the hand of a picnicker.  I'm partial, I like the state at which we are in at 10 to the 22nd power.  I like the atmospheric conditions.

Mid-Century Modern UCLA Faculty Center Saved



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UCLA Faculty Center, 1959  Courtesy of UCLA Archive

Due to an overwhelming amount of public outcry over the mid-century modern designed UCLA Faculty Center which was going to be demolished and replaced by a hotel and conference center.  On the eastern edge of UCLA, the building located at 480 Charles E. Young Dr. E., 90095 received the good news on Tuesday when UCLA Chancellor Gene Block decided to move the hotel and conference center project to what he described as a "second excellent site."

The UCLA Faculty Center is a membership Club for those associated with the University.  The specific and primary purpose of the facility is to make possible for members of the faculty, professional staff and other designated members of the UCLA community to meet both formally and informally, and thus to facilitate intellectual, educational, research, and social interactions in accordance with the general guidelines for UC faculty centers.

https://6811465069676600363-a-1802744773732722657-s-sites.googlegroups.com/site/savefca/home-1/UCLAfac_16.jpg?attachauth=ANoY7crSBOKyhAKugnddxfjBMK1ds1s61Z4az9Q65kcMq1OuV5bpGK7wHfw3X1sXbZ3tFpqb9rdZ-pt4QsTdZvyGeswCpN896tYaNGjzEOqVlLq5u5QOZ133F_o2dHsZmqQdjNp79BFBSsy4BeOexE7TA-1D32d5CFkv9koymoES1waxaBeJovsdIHWX2j0vcA12DuP4gpD9IOWhZuIY8JtAAcX8-bXMVg%3D%3D&attredirects=0
UCLA Faculty Center 2011   Courtesy of Joe Fletcher
Built in 1959, the 53-year old Faculty Center was designed by the architectural firm Austin, Field and Fry who were responsible for many civic buildings throughout Los Angeles.  The residential ranch-style post-and-beam design with floor-to-ceiling windows is unique for a civic project.  Beautiful patio and outdoor spaces join the indoors seamlessly for areas to gather.  With the good news comes the task of renovating and cleaning up the Center to meet the needs of modern day events and socials.  Time to adapt the building to a more conducive condition as maintenance has been neglected on the building for awhile now.

Preservation advocacy is a lot of work.  Anyone who has involved themselves in the effort to save a building knows exactly how hard it is to meet the goal.  The folks involved with Save the Faculty Center should feel accomplished.    Congratulations from an indebted soul. 

Modern Garden Tour: PS MODERNISM WEEK 2012


Modern Garden Tour
Organized by landscape designers
Paul Ortega and William Kopelk
Tour several modern desert gardens in Palm Springs and experience the modern aesthetic of drought-tolerant and desert-friendly plants. Both walk-through and drive-by viewing are integrated into this tour with the garden's designers and docents on hand to answer questions.


Check-in for the tour is at a location in the north end of Palm Springs. You will receive a brochure and map to guide you through examples of today's modern desert garden. From 4-5 PM, join us for a reception at the ACE Hotel and view its award-winning gardens.

Monday, February 20, 2012
2-5pm    Location: TBD

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Palm Springs Modernism Week: Lautner's Elrod House Cocktail Reception

Palm Springs Modernism Week 2012 is quickly approaching.  You have an opportunity to experience John Lautner's award-winning Elrod House at the Reception Party.  As there is limited space, it is encouraged you buy your tickets ($150) in advance for the Opening Night Cocktail Reception.
The panoramic views from this spectacular 1968 designed marvel of architectural achievement in engineering and design will be a teat for those in attendance. 
A special shout-out goes to my friends over at Just Modern Blog.

New 'Agency' for 2800 Glendower Avenue

2800 Glendower Avenue, Los Feliz  90027
High in the Los Feliz hills perches this 2-story reinterpreted mid-century modern home for sale, originally built in 1957.  Major renovation had to have occurred back in the late 1990s?  2800 Glendower Ave, 90027 was originally listed this year in March.  This is one of those listings that has it all within the 3,200sf of living space including 3 bedrooms / 3.5 baths on a 8,800+sf lot including views of Griffith Park Observatory.  Coming back to market after a cancellation and change of brokerage, this beautifully updated home is listed at $2,595,000.

Upon entry, your life begins to soar with high ceilings and majestic views of the Hollywood Hills.  You can't help notice the beautiful details of the high-end upgrade materials used on this project.  The terrazzo flooring at the entry is just the perfect welcome mat for me and a hello beautiful, to you! 

Open living space on multiple levels adds architectural dimension.  Step down into the Living Room and take in the beautiful views the walls of windows provide.
Clerestory windows, hardwood flooring, wood ceilings, steal, stone, built-ins, ceramic tiling, sliding window walls extending to the outdoors are all a homage to the architect's from the mid-century / Post-War Era
Calling "Entertainment Central"...  This place is the perfect hosting pad.
The open Kitchen is perfect for entertaining or keeping your eyes on the kids.  With a gourmet-outfitted kitchen, you'll be able to bring home the bacon and fry it up in a pan.
I really like having the Family Room situated next to the Kitchen and with access to the pool area.  Again, the flow of this home is absolutely incredible.  You can't help but feel good once inside. 
This really is a beautiful entry and staircase with the floating terrazzo steps to the 2nd floor.  The 2-story window treatment in the foyer is quite dramatic while complementing the vertical lines of the staircase.
Upstairs you find the sleeping areas with incredible views and privacy abound.
Both bedrooms have wrap-around terraces.
The Master bedroom consists of his and hers bathrooms and separate closets.  Genius!  The tile work in the bath extends the full wall and creates an earthy and grounded feeling in a quite spacious bathroom.  The subtleties and nuances in this home only show the pride of ownership as this home has been well-maintained since it's major renovation / re-design.
Welcome to a well-thought-out landscape with pool and spa.  Fountains and other landscape elements create an environment you can't find everywhere. Drought-resistant gardens add the modern eco-friendly touch, but battle the obvious watering hole called a pool.  Even though modern pools are more efficient, it's still a hard one to swallow when contemplating the "drought-resistant" aspects of this home.  The pol area receives some shade to help with evaporation rates.  Some folks speaking on behalf of the issue of drought-resistance also had some problems with the interior?  I think they need to rethink that point of view.  Clearly this remodel is not a re-muddle as most are.    There was great thought involved with the design of this home.
The outdoor living space really is an extension of the interior with wood treatments and stone creating a continuous design flow.  Just outside the Kitchen area is the pool area.  With a built-in BBQ area, you are certainly ready to entertain all your entertainment guests.
Rise one more level and you have a seating area with a view of Griffith Park Observatory.  Serene is an understatement, folks.  Tranquility and privacy prevail here.
Above the seating area, you climb up to an observation deck where you can observe the Observatory.  ;-)
This is a beautiful location in the Los Feliz Hills where you are guaranteed a beautiful sunset.
Back on Halloween of 1997, this listing ( MLS 715324 ) sold for $649,000 while in the original condition and design of the home.  Consider the dramatic difference.
1957 built home prior to renovation.
MLS listing 11-566229, courtesy of Tori Barnao, Agency.  Barnao once had this listing with Hilton & Hyland after selling the home while with KW.  Photos courtesy of MLS.


Steve Ward
Realtor®, SFR®
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Specialist
modernhomeslosangeles
Keller Williams Realty - Los Feliz
Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource
DRE Lic #01871422
213.305.8537 direct
steve.ward.la@gmail.com
MODCOM - LA Conservancy Modern Committee

Richard Neutra Troxell House Back-On-Market

766 Paseo Miramar, Pacific Palisades, 90272
One of Richard Neutra's later California residential works built in 1956, 766 Paseo Miramar, 90272 is a fine presentation of quality design and embodiment of the mid-century modern philosophies amongst those architect's of the Post-War era, creating homes with local resources and plenty of craftsmanship.  The Troxell House consists of 4 bedrooms / 2.5 baths in a truly insane floor plan with the interior meeting exterior at every corner.  With over 3,000sf of living space, take advantage of this Palisades home with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.  This Neutra-designed home is currently offered for $3,950,000.
Footsteps away from Topanga State Park, this handsome home blends itself well within nature and it's environment.  Once inside, you are swimming in sunlight with walls AND corners of glass.  Above, rests the tongue-and-groove ceiling treatment and the horizontal redwood beams that support the roof.  From the interior perspective, the ceiling carries a weightlessness as if to rest atop a glass box as you feel the heaviness of the wood above.
Original built-in features such as the banquettes in the Living Room and Dining area, as well as the beautiful library made up of wooden bookshelves and cabinets.  Most modernists were intellectuals who carried a broad literary library.  Neutra and most modernists embraced the mind and often included nooks or rooms with built-in bookshelves for all of the resources in one's contemporary book collection.  I bet there were several books on philosophy sharing the shelf space at some point.
The spacious Dining area provides plenty of room to create a spread.  With the walls of glass, one feels as if dining outdoors.  Integration of the outdoors with the indoor living area was very prevalent in Neutra's body of work.
The open Kitchen area with breakfast bar is a delight to anyone in the kitchen cooking up something tasty.  Notice how the ceiling is continuous throughout this home, even the kitchen exposes the tongue and groove application popular during this style of architecture.
The Master Bedroom is located on the Western wing of the house with views of the ocean and pool area.  The other three bedrooms are separated away from the Master quarters.
The Master suite is overwhelmingly large and expansive; and to my liking!  I am a big fan of corner windows.  There is something truly beautiful in seeing a seamless corner exposed. 
The Master Bath boasts a gorgeous sunken tub and double sink area.  The exposure to the outdoors is private and serene through the large window above the tub.
This photo is a great example of the glass box effect the design has with the glass walls seemingly supporting the structural roof beams.  Is there some correlation here with the Johnson House?  Of course there was.  Both embody the philosophies of modern design.
This happens to be one of my favorite photos of the group.  It shows the continuous thought and flow the house provides.  Look at this view of the Pacific Ocean.  Incredible!  This Pacific Palisades homes overlooks the Queens Necklace.
A view of the back of the house with the pool that seems to be floating from certain perspectives.  I'm ready to lounge!  Neutra's work holds a special place in my heart as it influenced my perspective of modern architecture of the Southern California movement.  Recently, I was involved with working with Dion Neutra, Richard's brother and sometimes collaborator in saving the Kronish House from demolition.  Dion and I were introduced because of my involvement with the Edward H. Fickett, FAIA 1959 designed West Hollywood Library, which did not enjoy a similar fate as the Kronish House.  Dion's dedication to his brother's legacy is endless.  I will always appreciate the collaboration during the 2011 Summer when both were fighting for the sake of mid-century architecture.  There are a lot of wonderful people surrounding and supporting the Neutra legacy. 
Listing courtesy of Judy Feder, H&H.  Photos MLS #11-565909.

If you would like to make an appointment to see this home, please contact me to set something up. 

Steve Ward
Realtor®, SFR®
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Specialist
modernhomeslosangeles
Keller Williams Realty - Los Feliz
Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource
DRE Lic #01871422
213.305.8537 direct
steve.ward.la@gmail.com
MODCOM - LA Conservancy Modern Committee

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Wiki Biography Update: Edward H. Fickett, FAIA

The below wikipedia article is what I have recently been working on in hopes Mr. Edward H. Fickett, FAIA will start receiving some well-overdue acclaim for his mid-century modern architecture and design achievements: 

Edward Hale Fickett, FAIA, (May 19, 1916 - May 21, 1999) was a nationally recognized, award-winning architect who was a consultant to federal and local governments in the United States and to President Dwight D. Eisenhower

Biography
A fourth generation Angeleno, Edward H. Fickett, FAIA was born May 19, 1916 in Los Angeles, California. He attended Beverly Hills High School and then went on to graduate from the University of Southern California in 1937 with a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture. He furthered his studies at MIT and received three Master's Degrees: Architecture, Engineering and City Planning. He also attended Art Center College of Design from 1939–1941. Fickett was a draftsman under the architects Paul Williams, Sumner Spaulding, and Gordon B. Kaufman, architect of Santa Anita Park Racetrack.
In August of 1942, Fickett served in the United States Coast Guard / United States Navy Civil Engineer Corps. He was Officer in Charge of Construction Unit 26, Civil Engineer Corps which oversaw construction of Long Range Aids to Navigation Stations located in the South Pacific. By the year 1946, the US Navy honored with Lieutenant Senior Guard [1] (LTSG), inactive duty.

After World War II, Fickett created a private architectural firm located in Los Angeles. He was admitted to corporate membership in the American Institute of Architects on April 7, 1950. Shortly thereafter, he formulated and participated in the AIA's "University Lecture Series" bringing along fellow colleagues, A. Quincy Jones, Rudolph Schindler and Richard Neutra while encouraging architecture students across the country to employ the ideals of modern architecture.

He was Architectural Advisor to Eisenhower and Consultant to the Federal Government on Housing. The Federal Housing Administration sought out a seven-member panel, including Fickett, to study and make recommendations for revision of the Federal architectural code. This committee was known as the Architectural Standards Advisory committee, FHA. Federal Housing Commissioner, Norman P. Mason declared in 1955, "A prime objective of the Architectural Standards Division to be the development of quality homes at low cost."[2] In 1959, Fickett was appointed to the Federal Housing Advisory Board where, with other members, rewrote the Minimum Property Requirements guide for builders. Many specifications and guidelines created during this period for the FHA are still being used today.

Through his work with such notable developers as Joseph Eichler, Fickett designed more than 60,000 post-war homes, along the way pioneering and promoting many of the concepts now seen as synonymous with California ModernismCalifornia Modernism. Fickett was responsible for the planning and design of over seventy residential communities containing in excess of 40,000 single-family dwellings. Fourteen of these developments have been cited by the AIA, NAHB along with numerous trade and professional magazines for their excellence of design. Better Homes and Gardens declared Fickett, "The Frank Llyod Wright of the 1950s".
During 1958, Fickett served in an advisory capacity to the National Association of Home Builders in the Research House Program. He contributed in bettering relations between home builders and architects in the California area while improving zoning and planning ordinances. Fickett's inclination to serve the common man resulted in him becoming Chairman of the Southern California Chapter, AIA, Committee on Low Cost Housing, collaborating with the Home Builders Association in planning a small prototype residential community in Los Angeles, California. He also served as a member of the American Arbitration Association, National Panel of Arbitrators for the years 1961, 1962 and 1963.
The American Institute of Architects honored Fickett on April 14, 1969 inviting him fellowship and membership into the College of Fellows for his notable contributions to the advancement of the profession of architecture (FAIA). It was through his excellence of design, proportion and scale along with the regional materials used including redwood, adobe brick and handmade flooring tiles. It was Fickett's ability to express the continuity of detail and expression of structural elements, all notable in the architect's works. The residential works exemplify an excellence of regional quality, which became trademark of the architect.

The City of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department designated the Jacobson House, Los Angeles as Historic Cultural Monument No. 674. This was the first contemporary structure to receive Landmark Status by the City. Commissioned by Dr. and Mrs. George Jacobson in 1965. The Jacobson House embodies the distinguishing characteristics of Fickett's work. Located on the same hillside street as the landmark Lovell Health House, the Jacobson House overlooks Eastern Hollywood and Barnsdall Park. Fickett oriented the house to make maximum use of the broad panorama. The house is a pavilion with the interior extending into the exterior with Asian-inspired landscaping. Other "Fickett Details" in the house include custom designed light fixtures, clerestory windows, room partitions, walnut paneling, built-in amenities such as bar and music storage, aggregate stone paving, large wrap-around decks, doors framed with painted black surrounds, and a variety of building materials, in this case brick, wood, stone, and glass. His fascination with light is quite apparent within the architect's body of work. Filtered and diffused light often found with slatted shade screens, "peek-a-boo" windows, clerestory windows and interior atrium positioned to allow soft light into areas of the home. Fickett felt every window had a purpose; to bring the outside in.

Upon his sudden death in 1999 due to complications from an E. coli infection, the American Institute of Architects named him "An American Architectural Hero". Governor Gray Davis praised him as "an exceptional architect who made many beautiful contributions to his community and to the people of this great state." President Bill Clinton presented his widow, Joycie Fickett with a letter of condolence, along with an American flag.

modernhomeslosangeles: Films with Banking Crisis Themes

As time goes by and 2008 seems to stay in our rear view mirror, we are still asking ourselves how we, as a country, got into the financial state we are in at the moment.  The below films make it on my “Favorites” list of films that expose the corrupt practices of Wall Street and the Banking system; and how both failed our economy.  Was it testosterone and the lack of women on the trading floors amongst the viral men in a manic frenzy or was it poor regulation that has spurred this latest financial crisis where we see unemployment reaching above 9% and the housing market virtually collapsing, leaving many home owners without employment and thus not able to pay their mortgage.  The scenario is a vicious cycle as realtors are continually seeing resistance from the banking institutions to negotiate easily and smoothly while in short sale transactions.  The collapse was due to capitalistic greed that got the better of the men who ran a system dry.  

To help better educate my clients, I highly suggest watching the below films centering around the 2008 Banking Crisis and the failure of Wall Street in protecting investment clients.  Each film has it's own perspective and whether a documentary or a fictional theatrical release, the astounding brazen attitudes shown by the CEO's, CFO's and traders that are only self-serving, ego-driven, testosterone-crazed "professionals".

"The Inside Job" - documentary
I always tell folks to watch this tremendous documentary about the collapse of our financial markets.  It really is just Part I of a double-feature I suggest you take on in one sitting.  I find viewing the documentary "Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer" after viewing "Inside Job" one heck of an evening!  Remember, this is an Oscar-winning film.

"Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer" - documentary
What was most impressive about this documentary was the fact Mr. Spitzer sat down for a lengthy interview.  This film made me stop shopping at Home Depot.  That guy is nuts!  I really felt bad for Mr. Spitzer upon watching this piece.  This film shows the viewer how dirty politics can be and to what extent someone will go to remove someone from power.  Brilliant!

"Too Big to Fail" - HBO feature film
Directed by the brilliant Curtis Hanson for HBO Films, "Too Big to Fail" is my favorite feature about the crisis.  The all-star cast delivers a historically-based script that reveals what was happening behind the closed doors of the investment banks.  William Hurt is excellent.

"Banks and How to Break Them" - BBC documentary
The video above is the full-length feature you can watch now.  From the BBC, this expose breaks down the Financial Breakdown in 2008.  Crashes and Rallies.  Hedge Funds and Bundling Bad Mortgages to sell on the secondary market, including the investment banks.  On a side note, the soundtrack is great with music from Moby, Massive Attack, Beastie Boys, White Stripes, William Orbit...

"Margin Call" - feature film
Currently in release, "Margin Call" is a slow-paced story with a great performance by Kevin Spacey and a sinister performance by Jeremy Irons.  I could live without Demi and her monotone performance.

The state of the real estate market is constantly changing on a daily basis with new rules, requirements and regulations delivered at an alarming pace.  If you would like a current perspective of the market, allow me to assist you.


modernhomeslosangeles Market Top 11

If you are looking for something modern in design, there are currently several mid-century modern homes for sale ranging in asking prices and located in different areas in Los Angeles.  From $665,00 to 2,395,000 there is bound to be a mid-century modern home for sale that is right for you!  Let me know if I can be of any assistance in your search for the perfect home. 
11337 Chalon Rd, 90049
The Goddard House built in 1962 by Lunberg, Armet & Davis sees it's first time on market and in an untouched original condition, wallpaper and all!  Listed for $2,395,000, the 4 bedroom / 6 bath Holmby Hills estate provides over 3,600sf over interior living space and rests on a .72 acre of land.  This is truly a special listing and happens to be our "Home Of The Week".  Open House, Sunday November 13, 1-4pm. Listing courtesy of Bret Parsons, JAG.  MLS 11-556033
8875 Appian Way, 90046
This is an impeccable updated 1951 home located in the Hollywood Hills above Sunset Plaza.  Listed for $2,399,000, this beautiful home with walls of glass allows the 4 bedroom / 3 bath home exposure to natural light throughout the floor plan.  This sleek and beautiful contemporary home offers beautiful upgrades and features.  The pool is to die for!  Listing courtesy of James Nasser, WEA.  MLS 11-564679
1200 N Tigertail Rd, 90049
I kinda lose my mind when looking at this amazing 1963 mid-century modern located in Brentwood's  Kenter Canyon area.   Featured in Los Angeles Times and California Interiors, this home has beautiful details and utilizes the the traditional mid-century modern pallet.  The 3 bedroom / 3 bath home was redesigned by the prior owner and current White House designer, Michael Smith.  Beautiful landscape and views for miles, this listing is being offered for $2,299,000.  The only downside of this home is that it has no pool.  Listing courtesy of Joyce Gottlieb, Pru.  MLS 11-565325
2075 N Beverly Dr, 90210
I always love a good REO/Bank-owned mid-century modern listing.  Built in 1960, this home located at the very north end of Beverly Dr offers privacy and nature.  Situated in the perfect setting in the Beverly Hills canyon area, the 4 bedroom / 4.5 bath home provides over 3,700sf of living space.  With it's earthy feeling and natural finishes: stone, wood and glass, this home is a winner.  Listed for $1,950,000, the home also provides an attached office or studio with separate bath.  Courtesy of Fran Chavez, Pru.  MLS 11-560565
8973 Wonderland Park Ave, 90046
The Kimmelman Home located in the fantastic area within Laurel Canyon is offered for the first time to the general public.  Built and designed in 1957 by architect Philip Kimmelman, AIA, the 3 bedroom / 2.5 bath is certainly an architectural gem not to be missed.  Great schools, close to the Racquet Club, take advantage of the one area of Laurel Canyon that gets full exposure of the sun.  High enough to avoid canyon shading, this is a precious rare offering at $1,465,000.  Listing courtesy of Crosby Doe, CDA. MLS 11-565215
4740 Louise Ave, 91316
Located on an incredible site overlooking the John Wayne Estate in Encino, this 1969 2-story home is fun and private, even though there is no pool.  Situated on .57 acres, the serene atmosphere will envelope you into the beautiful surroundings.  The 5 bedroom / 3.5 bath contemporary home offers many upgrades and beautiful light throughout.  Listed for $1,250,000, this listing comes back-to-market this week after a quick Pending status.  Courtesy of Michele Moses, TelProp.  MLS 11-562653
3708 Whitespeak Dr, 91403
I really like this modern 1959 located in Sherman Oaks.  The 2-story with pool features 6 bedrooms / 5 baths within 4,466sf of living space.  This is classic 'Moderne' in style.  Views from the upper story are endless.  This 2-day old listing is being offered for $1,195,000.  Located on a quiet and secluded cul-de-sac, anyone can see the value you this home.  Listing courtesy of Juliette Hohnen, TelProp.  MLS 11-565877
3172 Dona Susana Dr, 91604
With beautiful gardens surrounding this mid-century modern built in 1964, this Studio City hills home boasts a "Sophisticated Transformation" in it's 2,815sf of living space.  The oasis created by the lush landscape is really the selling point here.  Privacy and seclusion await.  This home located in the exclusive "Dona Streets" offers 3 bedrooms / 2.5 baths and listed for $1,049,000.  Open House on November 13, 1-4pm.  Listing courtesy of Carol Stewart, Sthby's.  MLS 11-564899
3050 N Beachwood Dr, 90068
Big fan of this post and beam located in Beachwood Canyon and the Hollywood Hills.  This mid-century modern home has walls of glass and other resources popular during this era including wood, clerestory windows, red clay pavers, fireplace and skylights.  The updated kitchen and baths are simply done and not "overdone".  With a wonderful open floor plan, this 3 bedroom / 2 bath post and beam is currently listed at $949,000.  This is one fun little tree-house.  Courtesy of Brian Courville, JAG.  MLS 11-555857
365 Sequoia Dr, 91105
I love the entry of this home located in the beautiful area of Pasadena.  The dramatic entry of this 1953 contemporary home has a great floor plan with a bonus room for office/studio.  Listed for $889,000, this 2 bedroom / 2.25 bath home provides beautiful original details and amazing views.  Let the sunshine into this home.  Listing courtesy of Michael Darling, D/P&P.  MLS 22158476
4948 Inadale Ave, 90043
I really love this listing... from the outside.  This 1964 split-level located in the Park Hills Heights area boasts 3 bedrooms / 2.5 baths in over 2,900sf of living space.  This mid-century modern delight is needing of a complete overhaul with the interior.  Listed for $665,000, be prepared for some work on the interiors.  Bring your contractor.  Listing courtesy of Solange Edwards, CB.  MLS 11-552553


Steve Ward
Realtor®, SFR®
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Specialist
modernhomeslosangeles
Keller Williams Realty - Los Feliz
Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource
DRE Lic #01871422
213.305.8537 direct
steve.ward.la@gmail.com
MODCOM - LA Conservancy Modern Committee



Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Fickett Designed Laurel Canyon Home for Sale

Built in 1959, this Edward H. Fickett, FAIA designed home is a spectacular sight with beautiful light through this 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath Mid-Century Modern home located at 8626 Allenwood Road, 90046 in the beautiful Laurel Canyon area with great schools.  Currently listed on the MLS for $2,575,000.
8626 Allenwood Rd, 90046
With skylights and floor-to-ceiling windows that open to nature, how can you pass up the opportunity to live in this architectural home situated with the quietness of the hills.  The extraordinary layout and open living space lends itself to entertaining.  With approximately 3,000sf of interior living space consisting of two sleeping wings, two living areas, dining and kitchen area, you will find the house to provide great flow and most areas featuring the backyard view.
You immediately sense the open and airy feeling this house provides once through the front door.
The spacious dining area is perfect for entertaining family and friends.  I always appreciate the Fickett features the architect was known for including the window and door treatments with black surrounds.  It makes the glass panels accentuate the outdoors by being framed in black.  It gives the windows and doors some pop.  
I've never been a big fan of kitchens that have appliances in corners.  I always believe the area of the kitchen is better served with some breathing room around an appliance.  Other than that, I really like this kitchen as it is surrounded by walls of windows on three sides. The kitchen is positioned centrally within the floor plan.  (I would still be curious to see the original plans so I could see the architect's layout of the kitchen.) 
The dining area could easily accommodate a 10-12 sit-down dining situation with beautiful high ceilings and walls of glass to accentuate the sleek and sexy nature of this home.
The Family Room is opposite the dining area and features the second of two wood-burning fireplaces. Just look at the living room window below.  That's one heck of a glass panel.
So many beautiful features are shown in this house with beautiful hardwood flooring, stone and other finishes that complete this contemporary living space ideal for a family.

Enjoy bedrooms with walls of glass that lead to the pool area and backyard.  Plenty of closet space is provided for those large wardrobes and shoe collections. 
This home shares a driveway, so be forewarned if this would be an issue.  Very private.

If you would like to see the home and would like to request a showing, please contact me at 213-305-8537.  The last time we saw this home on market was in 2009 where it sold for $1,800,000.

View Larger Map
Listing Courtesy of Richard Ehrlich, WEA.  Photos MLS.


Steve Ward
Realtor®, SFR®
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Specialist
Preservation Advocate & Historian
modernhomeslosangeles
213.305.8537 direct 

Keller Williams Realty - Los Feliz
DRE Lic #01871422

MODCOM - LA Conservancy Modern Committee