10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (2024)

byMarie Albao/September 18, 2023/inHome, Ideas

Los Angeles, often referred to as the epicenter of architectural innovation, boasts a rich history of mid-century modern homes. These have left an indelible mark on the world of design and continue to inspire architects and enthusiasts alike. Also, these homes, characterized by their clean lines, open spaces, and seamless integration with nature, emerged as a response to the post-World War II era and have since become timeless icons of modern living.

In this article, we will explore ten of the most famous mid-century homes in Los Angeles that have helped shape the city’s architectural identity.

  1. The Stahl House
  2. The Eames House
  3. The Bass House
  4. The Lovell Health House
  5. The Sheats-Goldstein Residence
  6. The Kaufmann House
  7. Case Study #20: The Bailey House
  8. Case Study #16: A Serene Oasis in Bel Air
  9. The Schindler House
  10. Case Study #21: The Bailey House

10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (1)

1. The Stahl House: A Monument to Modernist Vision

10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (2)

Located at 1635 Woods Dr, West Hollywood, CA 90069, USA, the Stahl House (Case Study #22) is an epitome of modernity and Japanese minimalism. A collaboration between Clarence and Carlotta Stahl, who had the vision for the home, and architect Pierre Koenig, this house has been recognized as one of LA’s historic cultural monuments. Besides, it is listed as one of the top architectural structures in America. Furthermore, its elegant exteriors and iconic Eames Lounge Chair make it a symbol of architectural excellence.

2. The Eames House: Home to Iconic Designs

Situated at 203 Chautauqua Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90272, USA, the Eames House (Case Study #8) is not only a mid-century modern masterpiece but also the birthplace of iconic designs like the Eames Lounge Chair. Designed and built by Charles and Ray Eames in 1949, this home is known for its modernity, Japanese minimalism, and innovative modular construction.

10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (3)

3. The Bass House: A Unique Wood-Clad Gem

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Located at 2275 Santa Rosa Ave, Altadena, CA 91001, USA, the Bass House (Case House #20B) stands out as a unique gem among mid-century modern homes in Los Angeles. Designed by Buff, Straub & Hensman in 1958, it deviates from the prevalent steel construction with its distinctive use of wood as the primary building material. To add, this home seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, exemplifying the principle of bringing the outside in.

4. The Lovell Health House: A Modernist Pioneer

Designed by Richard Neutra in 1929, the Lovell Health House in Los Feliz predates the mid-century movement but greatly influenced it. With its innovative use of space, interconnected rooms, and strong geometric lines, this home served as a precursor to mid-century modern design principles.

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5. The Sheats-Goldstein Residence: An Organic Marvel

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Designed by John Lautner in 1963, the Sheats-Goldstein Residence in Beverly Crest seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. Also, its concrete roof seems to float above the living spaces. And its distinctive design has been featured in movies and magazines, making it an emblem of architectural innovation.

6. The Kaufmann House: Desert Modernism in Palm Springs

Designed by Richard Neutra in 1946, the Kaufmann House in Palm Springs is a striking example of desert modernism. In addition, its horizontal lines, flat roof, and floor-to-ceiling glass walls blur the lines between the interior and the arid desert landscape.

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7. Bailey House: A Mid-Century Family Home

Designed by Richard Neutra in 1947, the Bailey House (Case Study #20), located at 219 Chautauqua Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90272, USA, is an intriguing example of mid-century modern architecture. Further, crafted as a family home that could evolve with its occupants, it features simple rectangular shapes and a captivating curved glass staircase.

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8. Case Study #16: A Serene Oasis in Bel Air

Tucked away in the serene hills of Bel Air at 1811 Bel Air Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90077, USA, Case Study #16 is a remarkable creation by Craig Ellwood. As the last surviving member of a trio designed by Ellwood as part of the Case Study program, this house is a city landmark recognized for its innovative design. Moreover, it features oversized translucent floor-to-ceiling glass panels and exposed steel framing.

10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (9)

9. The Schindler House: A Mid-Century Pioneer

Designed by Rudolph M. Schindler in 1921, the Schindler House in West Hollywood set the stage for mid-century modern design principles. As well, its innovative use of space, interconnected rooms, and strong geometric lines paved the way for the mid-century movement.

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10. Case Study #21: The Bailey House

Another prominent member of the Case Study House program, the Bailey House (Case Study #21), designed by Pierre Koenig in 1958, exemplifies mid-century modern design principles. Also, perched on a hill in the Laurel Canyon area, this house boasts an open floor plan, sleek steel structure, and walls of glass that invite nature into the living spaces. Additionally, it’s a testament to Koenig’s talent and vision.

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Los Angeles’s mid-century modern homes are not just architectural marvels but also cultural touchstones that continue to inspire designers, homeowners, and aficionados worldwide. These homes, with their forward-thinking designs, innovative use of materials, and deep connections to the California landscape, have left an enduring legacy. Also these shape the city’s architectural identity and standing as testaments to the enduring allure of mid-century modernism. Exploring these homes allows us to not only appreciate their aesthetic beauty but also to gain insight into the spirit of innovation and creativity that has defined Los Angeles for decades. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply appreciate architectural excellence, these iconic homes are a must-visit to experience the essence of mid-century modern living in Los Angeles.

Check out Minimalist Interior Design: Pros and Cons for more inspirational ideas.

10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (12)

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10 Iconic Mid-Century Homes in Los Angeles (2024)

FAQs

What is the famous mid century house in Los Angeles? ›

The Eames House: Home to Iconic Designs

Situated at 203 Chautauqua Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90272, USA, the Eames House (Case Study #8) is not only a mid-century modern masterpiece but also the birthplace of iconic designs like the Eames Lounge Chair.

What is the most famous house in Los Angeles? ›

The Gamble House is designated as California Historical Landmark #871 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The house was declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1977. Limited tickets to one-hour docent-led tours are available online.

What does a mid-century home look like? ›

A midcentury modern house plan is characterized by a very wide, low footprint with large, open spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an emphasis on bringing the outdoors in. Although midcentury modern architecture boomed all across America from 1945 to 1969, it's seen a major resurgence in recent years.

Who is the father of mid-century modern architecture? ›

The history of midcentury-modern architecture

Frank Lloyd Wright is undeniably the most influential figure on the period. Hallmarks of his buildings—site-specific designs, the consideration for flow between the spaces, and his dedication to the use of wood paneling—are all prominent features of midcentury-modern homes.

What is the oldest house built in Los Angeles? ›

The Ávila Adobe, built in 1818 by Francisco Ávila, is the oldest standing residence in the city of Los Angeles, California.

What is the highest selling house in Los Angeles? ›

The striking residence is made of structural architectural concrete. The home sits above the Pacific Ocean on an 8-acre bluff. Its sale, in May 2022 to Jay-Z and Beyoncé for a reported $200 million, sets a new California record for most expensive home ever sold.

Who owns the $250 million dollar house in LA? ›

Casa Encantada's current owners, financier Gary Winnick and his wife, children's author and artist Karen Winnick, purchased the abode for $94 million in 2000.

What area do most celebrities live in LA? ›

Specific neighborhoods within LA that are popular with stars include: Beverly Hills & Bel Air: These are classic celebrity havens known for their luxury mansions, gated communities, and proximity.

What is the famous Blue House in LA? ›

The Casa Azul (Blue House) is Frida Kahlo's private universe. She spent most of her life here, first with her family and, years later, at Diego Rivera's side. They hosted a fascinating array of luminaries from Mexico and abroad, drawn by the charisma of both artists.

What city has the most mid-century modern homes? ›

–New York, NY ranked number one for the best city for mid century modern home buyers with a city score of 40.11 out of 50. –Palm Springs, CA offers the most MCM builds for sale per capita with 271.43 listings.

Do mid-century homes have baseboards? ›

Mid-Century Modern homes feature clean, unadorned baseboards, with gentle curves to provide a simple accent rather than an eye-catching statement.

Who built mid-century modern homes? ›

Pioneering builder and real estate developer Joseph Eichler was instrumental in bringing Mid-century modern architecture ("Eichler Homes") to subdivisions in the Los Angeles area and the San Francisco Bay region of California, and select housing developments on the east coast.

Who was known for mid-century modern design? ›

Charles and Ray Eames were a pioneering husband-and-wife duo whose impact on design and architecture is immeasurable. They met at the Cranbrook Academy of Art and went on to become iconic figures in the world of Mid-Century Modern Design.

Who are the 4 fathers of modern architecture? ›

Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Louis Kahn are four of the most notable architects to date. Read on to find out more about the creative process of these four leaders of the modern era, and why their projects and practices are still influential to our modern times.

What Los Angeles mansion is known as The One? ›

The One is a private residence in Bel Air, Los Angeles, California, United States. It is a compound of a main residence and three smaller houses in the modernist style and was developed by Nile Niami. The property is 105,000 square feet (9,800 m2) on 3.8 acres (1.5 ha).

What is the famous L.A. Glass house? ›

The Stahl House (also known as Case Study House #22) is a modernist-styled house designed by architect Pierre Koenig in the Hollywood Hills section of Los Angeles, California, which is known as a frequent set location in American films.

What street in Los Angeles has Victorian houses? ›

Carroll Avenue
LocationLos Angeles, California
Coordinates34°4′10.54″N 118°15′17.37″W
Built1887
ArchitectNewsom, Joseph C.
Significant dates
12 more rows

What was the address of the biggest mansion in Los Angeles? ›

944 Airole Way Bel-Air.

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