GALLERY OF ARCHITECT GARY TURPENING'S FAVORITE BUILDINGS

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LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
MAY 1997
The following images are from my working vacation to Los Angeles in June 1997. I cannot thank enough the people that took the time to put on the seminars, the owners that allowed strangers to tour their homes, and the architects that carted me from building to building during my stay. It was wonderful.

A special thanks to Barbara Lamprecht, John Berley, and Rochelle Dynes Mills.

E-Mail to purchase prints or posters Gary Turpening AIA NCARB

RICHARD NEUTRA TOUR AND LECTURES

all on Silver Lake, Los Angeles CA

Sunday 8 June 1997 by the society of architectural historians southern California chapter

RICHARD AND DION NEUTRA VDL RESEARCH HOUSE II

Original VDL Research House by Richard Neutra in 1932

Rebuilt as VDL-2 in 1960 by Richard and Dion Neutra and Associates, Dion Neutra project architect.

This is really a composition of three houses with an architectural office and outdoor gardens maximizing the view to Silver Lake- all on a 60x70 ft lot. I paced off the lot on the sidewalk three times to check and it is true but still hard to believe since it
does not feel cramped.

This photo of the roof terrace is not a double exposure. The Neutras' ingenious use of mirrors, glass, and water explode the space.

The front deck and pool offers the outside to occupants in the living room. It is very tempting to step out.

This living room flows all around you into the kitchen, hall etc. Pictures cannot explain the experience of unending surprises.

The center garden ties the composition together and provided a common court for the three residences and employees.
Notice the large glass panels that slide out of the way making the outside flow into the house.

DION NEUTRA REUNION HOUSE

Original house by Richard Neutra in 1949, with minor remodeling when Richard and Dione lived in the house in 1960.

Renovation and new second floor by Dion Neutra in 1966.

The corner of this bedroom can be seen only as a thin line. Inside this space it feels like you are in the garden.

1957 RESIDENCE- CALIFORNIA

Dion Neutra will be building a web site with more information and pictures of his and his father's work. I will link to that site when available.

For information of touring of Richard and Dion Neutra's work or purchasing drawings or furniture click here.

ON TOUR WITH ARCHITECT JOHN BERLEY

LOVELL HEALTH HOUSE BY RICHARD NEUTRA 1927

This is one of the most important houses in the history of modern architecture. Although it pioneered the use of steel studs, steel joists, and steel windows, it is an artistic masterpiece. Many of the concepts here were rooted in theories of good health, including bringing the outside in and getting fresh air.

RUDOLPH SCHINDLER RESIDENCE AND STUDIOS 1922 West Hollywood CA

Rudolph Schindler Architect (at around the time he was the California manager for Frank Lloyd Wright's office)

This economical house was built for two couples and consists of a living area, kitchen, studios for all four occupants, and little else. The structure on the roof is one of the sleeping platforms for healthy living (under the stars since there are no bedrooms). It is amazing that this building has not succumbed to the apartment developments that surround it. The Neutras lived here on their arrival to Los Angeles. Many other famous artistic and literary figures have lived and visited here. Open to the public.

UNION STATION would you believe this is an Amtrack station

ON TOUR WITH FUTURE ARCHITECT ROCHELLE DYNES MILLS

RECENT HOUSE IN MALIBU BY LORCAN O'HERLIHY ARCHITECT

This house is a good example of Mr. O'Herily's residential work. It reminds me of some of Neutra's best work in that it has a quietude and calmness but at the same time merges the inside with the outside in a seamless fashion. The detailing is sublime, with soft light coming from special glass panels (to the right of the firplace). The planning on this very difficult site is masterful.

OFFICE BUILDING BY ERIC MOSS

Looking up at lobby ceiling. This is a building that has been published and debated for its deconstructive approach to the exterior. I feel this debate is a waste of time. A building should be able to pass the beauty test, and this is the only detail I could find worthy of publishing.

THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE- editorial comment is welcome.

E-Mail to: Gary Turpening AIA NCARB