As California’s fortunes rose and development boomed following World War II, Los Angeles offered a proving ground for new ideas about architecture and design. Reflecting the optimism of the atomic age, the Midcentury Modernist school of architecture is known for clean lines, geometric shapes, and functional materials with an emphasis on steel, glass, and concrete. One striking variation of the typical modern aesthetic was the stilt home, designed to take advantage of small, hilly lots otherwise deemed “unbuildable”. Seemingly gravity-defying, these homes are built on supporting stilts over which the home seems to float. About 1,500 of these striking houses were built in California during the 1950s and ‘60s, but very few are still standing today.
The listing of one of these unique homes for $1.599 million provides an opportunity to own a piece of LA history. Located in the City Terrace neighborhood, the home was constructed as a case study for the engineering program at Cal State University, Los Angeles in 1962. In 1995, it served as a shooting location for Michael Mann’s crime drama Heat, starring Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, considered one of the most influential films of its genre. The property served as the home of Danny Trejo’s character in the film, which the actor has called the favorite role of his career.
Featuring an expansive 60-foot wooden deck, the home offers sweeping panoramic views that stretch from Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign to Downtown LA and all the way to Catalina Island. Multiple sets of sliding glass doors and ample windows showcase the views and bring in lots of natural light. High-beam ceilings, bright white walls, and hardwood floors provide a classic style, retaining original mid-century elements.
The listing is held by Sally Forster Jones and Joshua F. Smith of The Sally Forster Jones Group at Compass.
Photography courtesy of Compass.
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