There are few architectural styles that are as hotly debated as mid-century modern designs. Whether you enjoy the clean lines and natural elements, or think the style looks like your grandma’s house – and not in a good way – it’s hard to argue the effect the architecture has had on modern-day homes. And for that, we have Richard Neutra to thank. The architect is considered one of the most important modernists of the 20th Century, and is known for simple geometric designs that “place man in relationship with nature; that’s where he developed and where he feels most at home,” as Neutra described.
The architect’s work has been in the spotlight lately, from the Getty Museum’s “Overdrive: L.A. Constructs the Future” exhibit, to indie film The Oyler House: Richard Neutra’s Desert Retreat, to Coast Modern, a new documentary that examines modernist architecture. But going to a museum or theater isn’t the only way to get an up-close look at his work; fans with the funds can purchase three homes currently on the market designed by the great architect.
In fact there have been a lot of homes designed by Neutra that have hit the market in the past few years. Read on for more information, and check out the “Richard Neutra” Redfin Collection for more photos of homes designed or inspired by the architect.
414 Avondale Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90049
List Price: $6,995,000
Beds: 3
Baths: 4.5
Listed by: Dana Cataldi, Partners Trust Brentwood
Richard Neutra designed this home in 1942 for NBC radio producer John Nesbitt. It has since been restored and renovated by acclaimed designer Barbara Barry and architect David Serrurier. The listing information says it was “designed with total integrity, channeling Neutra’s sensibilities of understatement and humble materials.” Nesbitt was clearly a fan of the style; prior to this home, he owned Frank Lloyd Wright’s Ennis House, which has a similar mid-century modern design.
301 Hughes Rd, Gulph Mills, PA 19406
List Price: $995,000
Beds: 5
Baths: 3
Listed by: Susan Ravenscroft, Kurfiss Sotheby’s International Realty-New Hope
Known as the “Coveny House,” this Pennsylvania home was designed by Neutra in the early 1960s. The Coveny family lived in the home for more than 50 years, and took great care to preserve the architect’s original design. It is one of only a handful of Neutra homes in the East; most of his homes are located in Southern California. Listing details claim it was once featured on the cover of TIME Magazine!
3701 Oakfield Dr, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
List Price: $699,000
Beds: 2
Baths: 2
Listed by: Sally Forster Jones, Coldwell Banker-BH South
If you’re interested in purchasing this home, you better move quickly, as a sale is currently pending. According to Triangle Modernist Houses, this home is part of 12 Stone-Fisher Speculative Houses for which Neutra designed the unique platform concept. However, Neutra had disagreements with the developers and withdrew from the project. Thanks to Neutra’s design, this home is perched on stilts above Beverly Glen Boulevard, providing an amazing view of the canyon below. His influence beyond that is unknown. UPDATE 5/31/13: This home is now sold!
There have been many more homes designed by Neutra that have hit the market in the past few years. Scroll through the slideshow below for more:
United States
Canada