A. Quincy Jones: Kalmick House (City of L. A. Historic Cultural Monument No. 634)

Modern living in the Post War Era was anything but boring in home design.  From the talents of the Southern California mid-century modern architects, we are fortunate to have several historically designated Cultural Monuments showing fine example of the modern philosophy.  As someone who works closely with the mid-century modern architecture Edward H. Fickett, FAIA designed in the Los Angeles area, along with the estate, I am also a big fan of one of Fickett's closest friends and contemporary, A. Quincy Jones, FAIA.  The two architects would often tour the country on behalf of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), making stops at universities while inspiring young architects.

 Kalmick House, 1950 A. Quincy Jones, FAIA, Architect

Hence, when I saw A. Quincy Jones' Kalmick House come to market, I gushed a little.  The Kalmick House, built in 1950 is a stand-out 3 bedroom and 2 bath home.  Due to the brilliance of it's design, the City of Los Angeles has designated the Kalmick House, "Historic Cultural Monument No. 634."  The City bestowed HCM status on February 4, 1997.

L.A. Historic Cultural Monument No. 643

Located in the area once known as the Mutual Housing Tract, a co-op created in the late 1940s led by musicians HCM No. 634 is found.  The unique utopian development experiment with a 400 member association was intended as a multi-ethnic project, until racial pressures came from the Brentwood locals, forcing the association to remove certain members in order to complete the sale of the development.  

The Mutual Housing Tract, now know as Crestwood Hills is tucked high up in the Brentwood hills and happens to feature the outstanding Kalmick House, surviving the 1961 Brentwood-Bel-Air fire where 49 homes burned.  Having a piece of architecture be a testament of time, surely can be applied with the Kalmick House, currently listed at $1,595,000.

The beautiful post and beam design is accentuated by the wonderful views this hillside property provides.  The integrity and the design of this home remain in tact, which is always a purist's dream.  Open floor-plan, walls of glass, outdoor garden areas with an abundance of natural light make this home one of a kind amongst the work of Jones.  There are several Jones designs located in the area, but not many are HCM's providing a buyer with an incredible property tax incentive up to a 60% reduction through the Mills Act.

Again, more reason to advocate the preservation of these historical homes.  If you or someone you know would like to visit this home, please feel free to get in touch with me.

12327 Rochedale Ln, Brentwood 90049

There are many similar qualities to the design and materials of the Kalmick House with the Friedman House, which Jones designed the same year, 1950.  (see video below)

Kalmick House, City of Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument No. 634

A. Quincy Jones, FAIA, Architect

Built 1950

3/2, 1,468sf, 10,260sf lot

12327 Rochedale Ln

Brentwood, CA 90049

Listing courtesy Scott King, DP&P