My Door As Art

Maison L :: Christian Pottgiesser Architectures Possibles

The simple and ubiquitous door is easily taken for granted. But in the hands of the right designer, these vital architectural building blocks can elegantly and gracefully transcend their mere functionality. Here's a look at some artfully rendered doors.

Studio X Beijing :: O.P.E.N. Architecture

242 State Street :: Tom Kundig :: Olson Kundig Architects

Coop Himmelb(l)au, Architects :: Himmelhaus

Steps to Abbot Kinney and the beach, this dynamic urban intervention is a rare private residence by the world-renowned Viennese firm, and the first project built by the Austrian team in the United States. Here the architects explode the constraints of functionalism into a thousand pieces, in the process creating a complex sculptural form interwoven with the apparatus of living. An impeccable Bulthaup kitchen and the finest European fixtures and appliances set an uncompromising standard of elegance inside, disguised by the raw drama of the exterior. The expressive use of concrete, glass and structural steel is tempered by an open plan with direct connections to the landscape, natural wood ceilings, the play of daylight and cool ocean breezes. At the top, a generous roof deck commands panoramic 360-degree views from the Getty Center to the Hollywood sign and mountains beyond downtown. Private, gated compound, 3 bed, 3.5 bath in 2,522 square feet.

Architect: Coop Himmelb(l)au, Architects

513 Grand Boulevard, Venice

for sale - price upon request
contact us to request a showing :: 310.275.1000

Beverly Hills P.O. Architectural :: Steven Shortridge, AIA

This stunning hilltop home was designed by Steven Shortridge, AIA, known for his highly livable contemporary architecture. The brick-clad ground level houses the residence's public functions, with generous circulation that leads from the entry to an expansive living space. Frameless glass walls seamlessly capture the panoramic views and open onto a terrace with an infinity pool and spa. A large open kitchen, butler's pantry, bar and media room complete the suite of entertaining spaces. Throughout the first floor, brick walls and polished concrete floors are balanced by white walnut planked walls and ceilings that provide a sense of warmth and intimacy within the large volumes. 

The second story, conceived as a floating box of white plaster and glass, hovers above the ground floor and houses the home's private spaces. Here, a gracious 1,500 square foot master bedroom suite is situated to frame the breathtaking vistas with a large sitting area, bath and private office. The home has three additional bedroom suites and all the luxuries expected.

1278 Angelo Drive, Beverly Hills P.O.

for sale $12,500,000
contact us to request a showing :: 310.275.1000

Robert Byrd Architectural :: Hollywood Hills

Designed by Robert Byrd in 1952, this home is a great example of his indoor-outdoor architectural style and comes complete with his signature embedded bird house over the garage. Beautifully detailed throughout and completely updated for today’s lifestyle, it has wonderful light and views. The romantic master bath boasts a claw foot tub, and a stunning kitchen is outfitted with professional grade appliances by Wolf and Sub Zero. The living area opens onto lush private gardens highlighting the property's original charm and flair. It is an absolute gem.

8281 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood Hills

for sale $1,349,000
contact us to request a showing :: 310.275.1000

Mid-Century Modern :: Studio City

Perched atop the hills, at the edge of a quiet cul-de-sac, sits a mid-century modern oasis. Meticulously re-imagined by a celebrated designer, this turn key home represents the finest in California indoor/outdoor living. Walls of glass open up to a gorgeous, lushly landscaped yard on an oversized lot with outdoor dining, fire pit, and a flat grassy area. Citrus trees and a hanging chair adorn this woodsy backyard, which is often visited by neighborhood deer. Inside, a vast great room is flanked by double fireplaces and an abundance of natural light. A stylish dining room beacons guests to enjoy themselves, while a state of the art kitchen hosts a breakfast bar, large farmhouse sink, and comes complete with bosch refrigerator and duel-fuel AGA range. Upstairs, two large guest bedrooms and a beautiful guest bath are overshadowed by the impressive master suite, complete with a dream closet and free standing modern soaking tub.

Located within the Carpenter Community Charter School district, and just minutes from Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Studio City and Universal City, this home is ideally situated for busy Los Angelites. However, much of the charm lies in the "away from it all feel" as it is perfectly tucked away from the noises and bustle of the city below. Renovated with an incredible attention to detail and an obvious joy, 3172 Dona Susana Drive is unique and delightful. There's even a secret room in this playful home: come visit and see if you can find it!

3172 Dona Susana Drive, Studio City

for sale $1,699,000
contact us to request a showing :: 310.275.1000

Modern Renovation by Built Group near Hancock Park

Masterful modern renovation by Built Group in desirable Hancock Park adj. location. The best of new, skillfully and harmoniously integrated into a classic neighborhood home within the 3rd Street Elementary School district. Walk to Larchmont Village, Hancock Park and the best of the arts and design districts!

Quiet, gated and private setting with an incredible grassy back-yard and outdoor dining pavilion.

Open and bright modern plan that is so hard to find in the neighborhood. Sleek modern lines with the warmth of natural woods and lush surroundings. Recessed lighting throughout the home provide and even glow.

Master bedroom suite features a gorgeous spa bath with huge double headed rainfall shower, built-in office area with skylight, and multiple closets with custom built-ins to have you organized and ready on day one. A wall of glass doors opens to the back yard. Spacious second and third bedrooms are joined by a Jack and Jill bath with double vanity and colorful glass tiled shower/tub.

Gorgeous custom built-ins provide storage and architectural appeal to the bright gallery entry hall. Incredible natural light with west facing front exposure, and all day sunlight via multiple architectural skylights. All new architectural quality windows and doors, striking new kitchen with designer appliances and counter-tops, and superb materials and craftsmanship throughout.

Detached architectural pod dwelling makes an ideal home office/studio or creative space. Stunning at night with tropical minimal landscape design featuring towering palms and drought tolerant plantings.

This is a Hancock Park area home for the next generation home buyer.

• 3 bedroom and 2 full bath
• Electric Gated Driveway with walled front courtyard and terraced decks and landscape areas.
• Outdoor dining pavilion with built in table and seating
• Built in office area in master entry hall
• Skylights throughout provide incredible light
• Stylish mid-century lighting fixtures included, and recessed lighting throughout.
• Brand new kitchen with professional appliance package, Viking Gas Range and Caesarstone Counters
• Indoor Laundry Room with full size washer/dryer
• Built ins with custom wood doors provide additional storage
• Custom window blinds throughout
• Alarm System
• Lush landscape design, sprinklers and lighting with timers.
• Fully fenced and gated. Driveway gate works by remote or manually.

 

306 S. Mansfield Avenue, Hancock Park Adjacent

for sale $1,725,000
contact Stephen Parisi to request a showing :: 310.488.7653

Casa Shapiro :: Ricardo Legorreta, Architect

Walled compound of multiple volumes creating plazas, gardens & greenswards framed by masterfully placed windows, emphatic walls and rich plank flooring. First floor consists of dramatic formal living room, dining room, updated kitchen, family room, master suite with office, housekeeper suite & 3 fireplaces. Second floor consists of four bedrooms, three baths, private balconies & playroom. 3/4 acre lot includes cabana, outdoor dining room, pool, spa, & paddle tennis court. Gated motor court.

153 S. Burlingame Avenue, Brentwood Park

for sale $10,995,000
contact us to request a showing :: 310.275.1000

Partner Spotlight: Tori Horowitz

deasy/penner partner Tori Horowitz, who has been with the company for over six years, is inspired by all things architecture, art, and design. The Los Angeles native says that she's constantly surprised by the range of styles that she is drawn to, from mid-century gems to grand old Mediterraneans. "I love a house that mixes styles inside," she says. "It makes the place more warm and personal." We recently caught up with Tori, who shares a Laurel Canyon home with her architect husband and two sons, ages 7 and 9.

Do you have a favorite house that you have sold or bought for a client?

It was an artist's compound in Laurel Canyon built by hand by the artist Hans Burkhardt over a period of decades from 1930 on. It was four small buildings on a hillside, accessed by a steep staircase down from the street, and also by a cable car. It had an authentic artisanal quality to it that I had never seen before and have not seen since. The fireplace was made of petrified wood, the beams throughout were hand sanded; you could see his stroke in every inch of the house. The seller wouldn't let me turn the lights on during showings because the house was sited deliberately to take advantage of the movement of the sun. The gardens were resplendent with citrus trees and aromatic herbs, avocado trees and ancient cactus and palms. It's truly a once in a lifetime kind of home.

What's your best piece of advice to someone house hunting in the Los Angeles area?

There are so many special spots that buyers often assume they would not be interested in. Take your time in considering different neighborhoods and know your options. Find an agent who knows the whole city back and forth, who you feel like will really give you the inside scoop, and can give you an insiders look at many areas. Where do residents do their grocery shopping? What cultural events happen in the area? Where do kids play? What schools are near by? What local eateries do people frequent? Are there hiking trails or outdoor activities near by? Ask about the things you are interested in. Really get a sense of different communities, and drive around and explore. Ask other residents what they like and dislike about the neighborhood. Stop people on the street. In my experience, neighbors are always happy to share their impressions. 

Whenever possible, keep your commute in mind. It's a big part of living in LA. Don't fall in love with an area that's going to keep you in the car for hours every day. Even thought it may seem like a good idea at the time, it will wear you down. And don't be discouraged if you don't get the first house you write an offer on. I know its hard to believe in the moment, but everything works out perfectly in the long run. Don't give up. Your house will find you.

What' something that sellers need to do better?

In today's market, it's really important to be realistic about pricing and remember that you have one chance to make a first impression with buyers. Every seller I have ever worked with thinks their house is the most beautiful house ever built. And they should feel that way, because it's their home. The market tells you what your house is worth. Don't be stuck on a price that may be unattainable. Hire an agent who knows the market, can guide you on pricing, can expose your home to great marketing and press opportunities, get excellent interior and exterior photos (preferably with a professional architectural photographer) and let them do their job. It helps to be flexible. Sometimes the plan changes according to the market and feedback from buyers and their agents. You have to be willing to take it all in and readjust, if necessary.

What's your favorite LA neighborhood and why?

I have lived in Laurel Canyon for almost 20 years and it has been perfect for me, and subsequently, my family. It's a real community. I know many, if not all, of my neighbors, far and wide, and I appreciate the collective spirit here. The creative legacy of the musicians and artists that came here in the 1960s and 70s (and before) is still very much alive. We attend living room and backyard concerts often. One neighbor just opened her home to a weekly yoga class, which I walk to from home, taught by another canyon dweller. I look forward to it every monday morning.  

We love the community we are a part of at Wonderland Elementary school. Another big draw is the nature. My whole family has a sense of belonging and comfort in the beautiful greenery we have right outside our window. Our kids jump over the backyard fence after school and on weekends to play with their friends. We lay in bed at night listening to the coyotes howl and the owls hoot their soft songs. We hike on secret paths, past century old houses and find ancient gardens of flowering cactus and grazing deer on the hillsides. We pinch ourselves every day that we can be in a huge city like LA and be away from it all at the same time. I feel like I am a lucky member of a secret club.