Edward H. Fickett Brentwood 1955 Atomic Ranch Listed

As most of you know, I am an avid fan of the work of Edward H. Fickett, F.A.I.A.  I am on the constant hunt to find them.  As many homes listed in the MLS do not indicate the master's imprint, I try to do my best to point out Fickett homes that come onto market that should be recognized.  Today was no exception as I came upon his 1955 Atomic Ranch located in a beautiful area of Brentwood, just north of San Vicente.  In 1954, Fickett designed 22 homes on Allenford for a developer, which were completed in 1955.  1372 Allenford Avenue is one of the designs he contributed to the area.  The 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom home is being listed for $1,795,000, which is a steal! 

As you walk in the entry, hidden behind slatted paneled wall are pop-open closets.  This is one of those features I love about the work of this architect.  He was always clever and had many tricks up his sleeve when contemplating his work.  Fickett's work always makes me smile.  His designs make sense to me.  I can always see his point-of-view clearly and often times his sense of humor.  Hands down, this home provides sleek, sophisticated sex appeal through its use of glass, block and redwood along with elements including shadow boxes, sky lights, indoor/outdoor flow, patios, gardens, low-slung roof line, post and beam, open living areas and walls of glass.  

As you move inward, you are exposed to the living area which has an open floor plan.  The family room is to your right (currently being staged as formal dining room).  Living room and outdoor patio to your left.  The kitchen and dining room with patio area, take advantage of the southern exposure with lots of glass.  The sleeping quarters are found to the north of the layout.

What is a major feature of this home is the beautiful fireplace dividing the open space. There are actually two fireplaces, one in the living room and one in the family room.  Fickett certainly created a focal point as well as grounding the post and beam to the earth. He uses masonry work throughout the home providing atomic form and function.  The patterns and textures he creates are also on display. 

There are many elements still intact, but a remodel has recently occurred.  I would suspect the entry flooring has been changed, along with bathroom remodels.  The kitchen has been redone as well.  Unfortunately, the kitchen is not done well, considering the period of the house. On an aside, I also question the stone which covers the planter on the side of the fireplace, something easily remedied.  I would have liked to have seen the original bathrooms.  I am positive Fickett would have used his passion for color with custom tiles.

In the office, the masonry is back again being showcased.  Fickett uses the block wall separating the living room and the office space to extend outdoors, creating a private patio and garden area.  The home rests on 11,538 square feet of land.  The interior includes a comfortable 1,955 square feet.  1372 Allenford Avenue, Brentwood should not be missed.  If you are not working with an agent, please call me to set up an appointment to see this fine example of Fickett's work. 

The sleeping quarters include 3 spacious bedrooms with a master bath and second bath, both remodeled.  With walls of glass, clerestory windows, sliding doors and gardens outdoors, the design of the home is not only practical, but livable.  You are constantly reminded of nature through the glass and outdoor landscape. 

Located in the Canyon Elementary School District.

Listing and photos courtesy MLS & Isabelle Mizrahi - Pru PP