Robert Skinner: Trousdale Mid-Century Modern Showplace

400 Castle Pl, Trousdale Estates - Robert Skinner, Architect, 1962 - $12,500,000

There are always mid-century modern architectural treasures found in the Beverly Hills enclave known as Trousdale Estates, developed by Paul Trousdale.  Built in 1962, this dynamic design by architect Robert Skinner will stop you in your tracks.  With an homage to the International Style, Skinner provides a spacious five bedroom and six bathroom showplace within 8,500 square feet of open plan living space.  The home is being offered for $12,500,000.  

Located at the end of cul-de-sac, 400 Castle Place, Beverly Hills, rests on a large lot of 40,466 square feet provides enough room for privacy while enjoying the outdoors or gatherings with friends around the pool.  

The two-story walls of glass and skylights invite beautiful natural light to the indoors while defused solar gain is achieved by the deep eave surrounding the envelope.  This is an entertainer's home!  A dramatic entryway leads to an over-sized living room with two-story walls of glass on either side and a two-sided fireplace. 

Additionally, there is a second living room, dining room, large updated kitchen with a cozy attached family room, and an office loft. The handsome master suite and two additional guest suites, plus a maid's room complete the main level, while a second master bedroom and bathroom comprise the second story.  The updated amenities will make anyone feel at home.  The architecture and design go hand in hand with this beauty.  Not a detail to be missed.

Outdoor areas include an expansive pool terrace with al fresco dining areas and an outdoor fireplace for chilly LA nights.  This home has been lushly landscaped.  For more information, contact modern homes los angeles.

Listing and photos courtesy Rayni Williams, H&H.

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

New Listing: Lake Balboa 1955 3 Bed / 2 Bath with Pool

16415 Haynes St, Lake Balboa 9146 - 1955 - $499,000

Escape into your own oasis. modernhomeslosangeles is happy to present a lovely    recently renovated 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom pool home built in 1955.  Take advantage of its location being close to Lake Balboa Park recreation facilities.  We are offering the 1,420 square foot home, located at 16415 Haynes St, Van Nuys 91406, for $499,000 (MLS# 13-683407).  This tasteful treat on a tree lined street, should not be missed.

This mid-century with modernized kitchen including new cabinets, quartz counter tops, tile back splash and stainless steel appliances, along with front loading washer/dryer. 

 Beautifully refinished hardwood floors throughout, along with newly tiled bathrooms. 

The master suite provides access to the covered patio and back yard.  

New roof, double pane windows, recessed lighting, fireplace, central heat/air, and copper plumbing provide a comfortable environment. 

Entertain in the spacious back yard with covered patio and large pool, recently resurfaced, to enjoy the outdoor Californian life-style. The home has a sizable 6,481 square foot lot.

Close to freeways, Van Nuys Airport and plenty of golfing.  

First showings, Broker Tues 7/2 11-2 and Sun 7/7 2-5.  Bring your clients, friends and family.   Please do not disturb Owners.  Call Listing Agent for an appointment to see this place.

Conventional, FHA and VA Financing available. Call Rachel Andrews, Wells Fargo, 818-380-3354.  As always, buyer due diligence.

Listing courtesy of Steven Ward, Keller Williams Rlty-Los Feliz / modernhomeslosangeles.

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