Los Feliz

Victor Shertzinger Residence, Mark Daniels, Architect 1921

2011-11-24T23:47:00.001-08:00

Victor Shertzinger Residence, Mark Daniels, Architect 1921, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

Architect Mark Daniels designed the Mediterranean Revival style house for Film Director Victor Shertzinger in 1921. Shertzberger directed many films, beginning in the silent era, including the "Road" pictures, featuring Bob Hope, Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour. Born in Pennsylvania, he studied music at Brown University and the University of Brussels. A well-known concert violist and symphony conductor, he got his start in the movie business by composing the score for the film, "Civilization" in 1916. By the time of his death in 1941, he had directed 87 films and written thirteen musical scores in addition to numerous screenplays.

Shertzinger lived the celebrity life to the hilt. He drove a Duesenberg, while his wife could be spotted in a chauffeur-driven Pierce Arrow. He was credited with bringing music to the silver screen, composing the first accompanying score for "The Tick Tock Man of Oz", followed by "Pretty Miss Smith", "If I Had You" and "My Daddy Knows". He later turned to directing; among his many stars were Dorothy Dalton, Pauline Fredrick and Mabel Normand.

Located at 4120 Cromwell Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Dr. B.C. Coleman Residence, Harry H. Whitely, Architect 1926

2011-11-24T23:46:00.001-08:00

Dr. B.C. Coleman Residence, Harry H. Whitely, Architect 1926, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

Architect Harry Hayden Whitely designed the Spanish Revival style house for Dr. B.C. Coleman in 1929. It is currently the home of actor Danny Bonaduce. The architect also designed the John M. Blank Residence at 1950 N. Edgemont Street (1928); the Captain Harry M. Rubey Residence (1920) on Commonwealth Avenue, the McGowan House for Film Director Robert F. McGowan located at 1928 N. Western Avenue (1929) and.a home for Ceramicist Laura F. Anderson on Edgemont Street in 1928.

Located at 4039 Cromwell Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

2060 N. Edgemont c.1949

2011-11-05T08:15:00.001-07:00

2060 N. Edgemont c.1949, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

The English Tudor Revival style had its greatest period of popularity in the 1920s, however it remains one of the three most preferred styles of architecture in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, outflanked only by Spanish and Mediterranean Revival. This "latecomer" built in 1949 is a good example of its enduring popularity.

Los Feliz United Methodist Church, Claude A. Faithfull, Architect 1938

2011-11-05T08:14:00.001-07:00

Los Feliz United Methodist Church, Claude A. Faithfull, Architect 1938, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

Originally designed by Architect Claude A. Faithful as the Mount Olive Methodist Episcopal Church in 1938, the church later became known as the Los Feliz United Methodist Church. Today the church operates as the Metropolitan Community Church of Los Angeles; the Fellowship has a specific outreach to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender families and communities. Located at 1901 N. Kenmore Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Villa de Liones c.2000

2011-11-05T08:11:00.001-07:00

Villa de Liones c.2000, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

Villa de Liones, a Beux-Arts Tuscan-style villa would appear to have been built in the 1920's during the heyday of classical architecture in Los Feliz, however it was built in 2000. An impressive monument in the 'Hearst Castle manner', the home boasts a two-story entry, six bedrooms and 6.5 baths, wood-paneled library, magnificent public rooms, a home theatre, pool, spa and gazebo, with plenty of classical balustrades and statues thrown in for good measure.

As of April 2006, it was listed for sale for a whopping $6,280,000. As of November 1, 2011, the house has been re-listed for sale for a (mere) $4,950,000! Located at 4601 Dundee Drive in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Johnstone House, William Kesling, Designer 1935

2011-10-23T19:12:00.001-07:00

Johnstone House, William Kesling, Designer 1935, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

One of Kesling's earliest commissions and one of his best. The home was built right after the success of his 'Model Home' in Silver Lake, which established the young architect-builder as a force in the Modernist Movement. It must have appeared on the outer edge of the avante-garde in the affluent Los Feliz of the time, when elegant homes of Spanish, Mediterranean and English Tudor design were most preferred. Resistance to this new 'machine' architecture was high; it took the speculators almost two years to sell the house after its completion.

The Johnstone House is located in Los Feliz on Lowry Road just north of Los Feliz Boulevard on the west side of the street.

For more information on William Kesling, be sure and read the fascinating book, 'Kesling Modern Structures: Popularizing Modern Design in Southern California: 1934-1962' by Patrick Pascal (with Photographs by Julius Shulman and David Sadofski, Balcony Press, 2002).

Los Feliz

2011-10-12T06:43:00.001-07:00

Los Feliz, a set on Flickr.

Donna and I packed our bags and moved from Silver Lake to Los Feliz in November 2007. We were fortunate to relocate to a fantastic old Spanish Revival house, formerly the home of the Beaton Family of radio fame. William Beaton was President and Chairman of the Board of KIEV Radio 1961-1985 (his sons Fred and Ron took control of the station after his death). Shortly after moving in, Donna and I attended a New Year's Eve party in Silver Lake at the home of Dave Keitel and Shelley Marks (Silver Lake Reservoirs Conservancy). Tom LaBonge was among the guests that evening; as we shared about our move from Silver Lake to Los Feliz Tom inquired, "Where in Los Feliz?" After giving him our new address, he immediately replied, "Oh, you live in the Beaton House, I used to go swimming there as a child."

While we still have a great affection for Silver Lake, Los Feliz is our new home and we are really enjoying being on a "perpetual holiday"! Living at the foot of Griffith Park with its unspoiled trails and living in our dream home and appreciating the beautiful architecture as well as our neighbors has been a dream come true.

Walking the neighborhood, I plan on bringing my camera along as often as possible. I trust you will share my appreciation for Los Feliz in the pictures and stories about our community. Visit us regularly and enjoy the journey!

Julius Shulman & Architect James Meyer, Nov. 22, 2008

2011-08-24T08:49:00.001-07:00

Julius Shulman & Architect James Meyer, Nov. 22, 2008, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

The AIA/Los Feliz Home Tour of 2008 provided the opportunity to visit this recent addition to the architectural heritage of Los Feliz. Architectural Photographer Martin Schall (you-are-here.com) accompanied me on the tour. Connecting with the architect, he later called me and asked if I would be kind enough to introduce him to Julius Shulman. A few weeks later, we were in the Shulman home and studio in the Hollywood Hills, where Meyer proposed a project for Shulman to photograph, the architect's "Cloud House" in the Hollywood Hills.

In the photo, taken at the Cloud House in Los Feliz on November 22, 2008, Shulman explains how the house will be photographed to the architect. Meyer would later recount the experience in an article published in "Southbay Magazine", September/October 2009 paying tribute to the photographer and recounting the experience.

3469 Rowena Avenue c.1928; H&H Design Group, Landscape Design 2011

2011-08-23T19:09:00.001-07:00

3469 Rowena Avenue c.1928; H&H Design Group, Landscape Design 2011, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

I have driven by this delightful Storybook style house in Los Feliz hundreds of times, fascinated by its charm. The house has a French Provincial aesthetic with its Normandy tower and steep gables wtih rolled eaves. It has recently undergone a facelift, highlighed by the lovely new landscaping and stone walkway, designed by Nicole Hammacher and David Hamre of H&H Design Group. Nicole writes, "the “Gingerbread-Design” house, built in the late 20s by the Disney Studios, can probably tell stories. As one tale goes, the Disney executives used the house to entertain their “mistresses”! When we removed the pre-existing plants from the front of the house, we discovered long-buried ‘20s ironwork and other charming details hidden behind the towering jungle of junipers and Birds of Paradise that had grown up and over the house. The multi-layered design includes a limestone pathway, courtyard, and driveway…a glass-and-iron, half-moon cocktail bar attached to the courtyard, custom-built by David, as well as horticultural elements of: rare, dwarf peppermint trees; specially selected Malibu boulders; a wide array of ornamental grasses; as well as an antique burgundy birdbath surrounded by butterfly-loving plants".

4340 Melbourne Av. c.1909

2011-08-15T07:41:00.001-07:00

4340 Melbourne Av. c.1909, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

The earliest remaining homes in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles date from the year 1900. In fact there are less than 550 homes still standing that were built between 1900 and 1919. The following year there was an explosion of growth with 113 homes, at least that are still around. Most of the homes were designed in the Craftsman or California Bungalow style, and were situated in the vicinity of "Los Feliz Village", (the neighborhood directly south of Los Feliz Boulevard and north of Hollywood Boulevard) and the area designated as "Hollywood Grove", the neighborhhood east of Canyon Drive, west of Gramercy Place, and above Franklin Avenue.

A total of thirty-nine of the homes are located on Melbourne Avenue in Los Feliz Village, between the 4300 and 4600 block.

4426 Melbourne Av., c.1914

2011-08-14T19:14:00.001-07:00

4426 Melbourne Av., c.1914, a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

Julia Faye House, H.P. Siberell, Builder 1922

2011-03-11T07:10:00.001-08:00

Julia Faye House, H.P. Siberell, Builder 1922 a photo by Michael Locke on Flickr.

Originally built for Mable F.Farrell by contractor H.P. Siberell in 1922, the Georgian Colonial estate was the home of silent screen star Julia Faye., Cecil B. DeMille's mistress; some say DeMille owned the home and provided it for her to live in. Faye appeared in more DeMille movies than any other actress. including many of his silents and in every one of his movies beginning with "Union Pacific" in 1939. DeMille kept her employed in bit parts long after her career (and their relationship) was over, including his most famous film, The Ten Commandments (1956).

Cedars Estate, Xorin Balbes, Sue Wong & Zoltan Papp, Restoration 2003-2004

2011-02-12T23:33:00.001-08:00

Cedars Estate, Xorin Balbes, Sue Wong & Zoltan Papp, Restoration 2003-2004
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Originally built in 1926, The 'Cedars' is one of the most storied old Hollywood glamour estates, originally built for film director Marcel Tourneur, and reputed to be the home of silent screen star Norma Talmadge, although never proven. In an interview published in 'Antiques & Fine Art' by Lynn Morgan, Sue Wong, an avid student of history and art claims ' Errol Flynn practiced his 'wicked, wicked ways here; Marilyn Monroe was a frequent guest. Howard Hughes played the grand piano in the solarium, and Johnny Depp lived here to do research for his role in Ed Wood because Bela Lugosi had lived here. The wrap party for Easy Rider was held here; Dennis Hopper shot some scenes for the movie here. It was also a big rock 'n' roll party pad. Arthur Lee of the band 'Love' lived here for a while.'
It is said that the home is a replica of a 17th Century Florentine villa owned by the Duke of Alba. It was last sold in August 2004, setting a record price of $5.3M for the Los Feliz area.

Schrage House, Raphael Soriano, Architect, 1951

2011-02-12T23:26:00.001-08:00

Schrage House, Raphael Soriano, Architect, 1951
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Schrage House, Raphael Soriano, Architect, 1951
Along with his contemporaries, Gregory Ain, John Lautner, Charles & Ray Eames and Harwell Hamilton Harris amongst others, Raphael Soriano was in important contributor to the 'Second Generation' of California Modernists. Having worked with both Richard Neutra and Rudolf Schindler, Soriano provides a link between the two. Both Craig Ellwood and Pierre Koenig worked for Soriano, and Frank Gehry claims to have been strongly influenced by his work. His first residential commission was the Lipetz House in Silver Lake in 1936, which created a sensation at the 1937 International Exhibition in Paris, winning the prestigious Prix de Rome and establishing his reputation.

Taggart House, Lloyd Wright, Architect 1922 (Eric Lloyd Wright, Remodel 2006)

2011-02-12T23:19:00.001-08:00

Taggart House, Lloyd Wright, Architect 1922 (Eric Lloyd Wright, Remodel 2006)
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

http://www.flickr.com/photos/michael_locke/sets/72157604536787273/

Sowden House, Lloyd Wright, Architect

2011-02-08T23:19:00.001-08:00

Sowden House, Lloyd Wright, Architect
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Visiting Sowden House in Los Feliz is an enchanting experience. As a volunteer-docent for the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy 2005 Home Tour, I was invited to attend a 'Volunteer Appreciation Event' at this fabulous home by the Conservancy's 2005 Conference Co-Chairs, Scott Crawford (of Silver Lake), Deborah Vick, and Larry Woodin.

Designed by Lloyd Wright, the son of Frank Lloyd Wright in 1926-27, the Sowden House has been re-imagined by Designer Xorin Balbes (Temple Home) whose firm specialized in the restoration of old historic homes. The home has the look of an ancient temple which one may have just stumbled upon on a foray into a jungle. Temple Home's transformation is nothing short of magical, bringing a sensual vitality to this long-neglected landmark.

Judge Isaac Pacht House, S. Charles Lee, Architect 1927

2011-02-08T07:35:00.001-08:00

Judge Isaac Pacht House, S. Charles Lee, Architect 1927
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Designed by famed theatre architect S. Charles Lee for Superior Court Judge Isaac Pacht. Pacht lost the house during the Great Depression. , Architect S. Charles Lee moved to Los Angeles in 1922. During his long career, Lee designed over 400 theaters throughout California and Mexico The Los Angeles Theater (1931) is considered his finest work. Other works by Lee include the Hollywood Melrose Hotel (1927); Tower Theater (1927); Los Angeles; Hollywood & Western Building (1931); Max Factor Building (1935) and the Bruin Theater in Westwood (1937).

•
The Judge Isaac Pacht House is located at 5057 Los Feliz Boulevard.

Mark Hall House, Mark Hall Architect 1981

2011-02-08T07:25:00.001-08:00

Mark Hall House, Mark Hall Architect 1981
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Designed by the architect for his family, the exterior walls are formed from 'energy-efficient corrugated concrete asbestos', probably in retrospect not the ideal material. Architect Mark Hall served as president of the Los Angeles chapter, American Institute of Architects in 1985, and is also Past President of the Los Angeles Conservancy.. Hall is co-founder and principal of Archiplan, a Los Angeles-based planning and architectural firm.

Johnstone House, William Kesling, Designer 1935

2011-02-04T14:47:00.001-08:00

Johnstone House, William Kesling, Designer 1935
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Sherwood House, Ben Sherwood. Builder 1938

2010-12-31T21:42:00.003-08:00

Sherwood House, Ben Sherwood. Builder 1938
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The intersection of Griffith Park and Rowena Avenue might well be called the "Storybook Corner" of Los Feliz; Builder Ben Sherwood also designed the nearby "House of the Seven Dwarves" (2900-2912 1/2 Griffith Park Blvd.). The equally famous "Snow White's Cottage" is located diagonally across the street.

The Normandy "castle' is located at 3212 Griffith Park Blvd.

Hamerlund House, J. Hamerlund, Builder 1926

2010-12-31T21:42:00.001-08:00

Hamerlund House, J. Hamerlund, Builder 1926
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The Los Feliz district has a great many of these English Tudor Revival homes. The style was very popular with the affluent beginning in the 1870s; furthur interest was sparked by GIs returning from the front at the end of World War I. Interest in the style peaked in the 1920s and continued until the advent of World War II. The Hamerlund House is one of my favorites, set in a lovely garden at 3434 Waverly Drive.

3601 Griffith Park Blvd. c.1932

2010-12-30T16:44:00.001-08:00

3601 Griffith Park Blvd. c.1932
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The Los Angeles home of French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. The artist has performed with most of the world's leading symphonic orchestras including: the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Orchestre National de France, among others. He also frequents the great concert halls of Europe and North America and is quite fond of travelling to Australia, where he has a strong fan base. Thibaudet's virtuosity is such that he even impressed the great Vladimir Horowitz.

In 2001, the French Republic made Thibaudet a Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.

Ben Platt Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1926 & Albert E. Hansen (1929)

2010-12-15T23:47:00.001-08:00

Ben Platt Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1926 & Albert E. Hansen (1929)
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The house has a fascinating history, not too surprising given its grandeur. Originally designed for Rudolph Rosenberg by Architect Harley S. Bradley, the home was purchased in the same year by music store magnate Ben Platt. Platt hired Paul R. Williams to enlarge the house, adding an additional story. In 1929, Platt embellished the house again, hiring architect Albert E. Hansen to add a swimming pool, tennis court, garden house and pergola. The next owner was con man C.C. Julian. The Julian Petroleum scandal exposed the speculative mania of the times and the greed of certain individuals (much like the Bernard Madoff's of today's generation) that eventually led to the stock market crash of 1929 and its devastating aftermath. Julian arrived in Los Angeles in 1922 shortly after oil was discovered in the communities of Long Beach, Huntington Beach and Santa Fe Springs. Securing a lease to drill oil in Santa Fe Springs, he launched a clever scheme, portraying himself as the "champion of the small investor, battling against big oil and the corporate moguls" in colorful advertisements in the Los Angeles Times. After each of his first five wells hit gushers, money poured in quickly. He launched Julian Petroleum Corporation in 1923, promising the venture would supplant Standard Oil. In 56 days, he sold $5 million worth of stock. During his brief fame, Julian emerged as one of the most colorful figures in Los Angeles. His lavish mansion in Los Feliz, along with his flamboyant wardrobe, attractive female companions and fleet of luxury cars and a well-publicized nightclub row with Charlie Chaplin probably led to his undoing. Suspecting fraudulent activity, the California corporations commissioner launched several investigations into his activities.

The Julian Petroleum crash revealed a web of corruption, contributing to the collapse of the First National Bank, the election of former Ku Klux Klansman John Porter as Mayor, and the defeat of Governor C.C. Young in his bid for re-election. More drama unfolded, including the courtroom assassination of a banker, a blackmail plot involving the city's best-known reporter and the double murder of gangster Charlie Crawford and a newspaper editor by a candidate for municipal court judge. C.C. Julian committed suicide in a hotel room in 1934.

In the year 2000, the home was acquired by the Saint Columbans Foreign Missionary Society, a Catholic society of secular priests organized around global mission. Brother Tom Reynolds was kind enough to greet me and provided much of the information about C.C. Julian and the history of the house. Located at 2600 North Vermont Avenue.

Gurdwara Vermont Sikh Temple, Concept Techology Architects 1996

2010-12-15T23:44:00.001-08:00

Gurdwara Vermont Sikh Temple, Concept Techology Architects 1996
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The Sikh religion originated in the 15th century with the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539) originated in the Punjab region of North India who taught the need for "loving devotion to God that cannot be perceived in human or any other form", according to the Harper Collins Dictionary of Religion. Anyone who followed his teachings was called a "learner"--a Sikh.

The temple was dedicated on April 20, 1996, at which time professor Manjit Singh, the supreme and highest spiritual and temporal authority of the Sikh religion visited from India, exhorting Sikhs to "turn from disunity, ego, greed, pride and intoxicants, and to seek the virtues of humility, selfless service, sweetness, dedication and devotion".

The temple is located at 1966 North Vermont Avenue.

Our Mother of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960

2010-12-15T23:31:00.001-08:00

Our Mother of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Earle C. Anthony House, Bernard Maybeck, Architect 1927

2010-12-15T11:32:00.001-08:00

Earle C. Anthony House, Bernard Maybeck, Architect 1927
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The singular authenticated architectural project completed by the architect in Los Angeles, Maybeck is considered to be one of the great originals of American architecture.

The Anthony House, built for Earle C. Anthony in 1927 combines both Medieval, Gothic, Spanish and Tudor elements. The interior of the Nordic entrance tower was furnished as a replica of the prayer room of the Holy Father at the Vatican in Rome

Hopperstead House, A.F. Leicht, Architect 1925

2010-12-14T16:51:00.001-08:00

Hopperstead House, A.F. Leicht, Architect 1925
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Architect A.F. Leicht designed the house for E.W. Hopperstead in 1925. The architect designed approximately 24 homes in the Los Feliz and Hollywood neighborhoods during the 1920's, including John Phillip Law's "Castle" (1929). He also designed Angelus Temple in Echo Park for evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. Located at 4171 Cromwell Avenue in Los Feliz.

Ley House, George W. Ley, Architect 1923

2010-12-13T18:16:00.001-08:00

Ley House, George W. Ley, Architect 1923
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Architect-builder George W. Ley designed and built the Spanish-Moorish style residence as his own personal residence in 1923. Located at 2300 Wayne Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

McTernan House., David Hyun Architect 1960; DesignVidal (remodel) 2010

2010-12-13T17:58:00.001-08:00

McTernan House., David Hyun Architect 1960; DesignVidal (remodel) 2010
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Korean-born Architect David Hyun designed the house for John T. McTernan in 1960. The house is currently (2010) undergoing an extensive restoration under the direction of Karen Vidal (DesignVidal). Located at 2226 Wayne Avenue in Los Feliz.

"The Castle" on Tryon Road

2010-11-19T21:53:00.001-08:00

"The Castle" on Tryon Road
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

A fairy tale fortress with crenellated walls, turrets and towers, designed by an unknown architect in 1928. Actor Nicholas Cage lived here for a time. The four-bedroom, five-bath house is currently (November 2010) on the market and listed for sale at an asking price of $1.249 million. Located at 5647 Tryon Road.

Rafael Franco House, Rafael Franco, Architect 1978

2010-11-05T22:49:00.001-07:00

Rafael Franco House, Rafael Franco, Architect 1978
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Rafael Franco is principal architect of Rafael Franco and Associates founded in 1981. Franco designed the house in 1978 and still owns it. Franco's contributions include Casa Esperanza, an anti-poverty agency founded by nuns that had been operating for 14 years out of two apartment units on Blythe Street in Panorama City. Franco was inspired by the film, "Lilies of the Field", in which actor Sidney Poitier in an Oscar-winning role, portrays an unemployed construction worker who stumbles upon a group of nuns in the desert and believes he has been sent by God to build them a church. Franco made a promise, saying he would finish the Spanish-mission-style building by Christmas.

The Rafael Franco House is located at 4835 Glencairn Road.

Reid House, Hewill & Miller, Architects 1925

2010-11-05T22:48:00.001-07:00

Reid House, Hewill & Miller, Architects 1925
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The architects Hewill & Miller designed the house in 1925 for Realtor William P. Reid and his wife S. Evelyn Reid , architects 1925 "where the entrance to Laughlin Park was & palms still are". Located at 5321 W. Franklin Avenue.

Victor Rossetti House, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1928

2010-11-05T15:18:00.001-07:00

Victor Rossetti House, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1928
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Victor Rossetti's rapid rise through the ranks of the banking industry began as an office boy for Wells Fargo in San Francisco in his early 20’s. Within twenty years he was Vice President of Farmers and Merchants Bank in Los Angeles, the oldest financial institution in Southern California. Three years after he and his wife Irene moved into the Ponet Drive house, he became President of the bank, a position he held for the next twenty five years. Rossetti selected Paul R. Williams, one of the most important architects of the time to design his home in the Spanish Colonial Revival Style, embracing the California lifestyle and the region’s romantic past. Williams added coffered and stenciled ceilings, a dramatic two-story entryway with sweeping staircase, a library, intercom system and a wooden elevator connecting the garage to all levels of the house. Victor and Irene Rossetti lived at the house for the length of their marriage, until Irene died in 1947. After her death, Rossetti retired. , selling the house in 1950 and moved to San Marino., and the house was sold in 1950 when Rossetti retired and moved to San Marino, California. Except for earthquake retro-fitting, the addition of bathrooms, and updated heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing systems, the aesthetics of the house are little changed. Victor, Irene, and their two children would have little trouble feeling right at home again. The Victor Rossetti Residence is located at 2188 Ponet Drive in Los Feliz. Declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2008 (No. 915).

Milt Davis House, Ed Niles Architect 1975

2010-11-05T12:39:00.001-07:00

Milt Davis House, Ed Niles Architect 1975
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Home of Milton Eugene Davis (1929 –2008) UCLA standout and All-Pro football player who played four seasons in the NFL for the Baltimore Colts. He attended Jefferson High School and Los Angeles City College. In his rookie season with the Baltimore Colts (1957), he had 10 interceptions which were returned for a total of 219 yards, two of them for touchdowns including a return of 75 yards and was named to the Associated Press NFL All-Pro Team. Davis retired after four seasons in the NFL and returned to complete work on a doctorate in education at UCLA. Locally, he coached at John Marshall High School and was a professor of Natural History at Los Angeles City College (1964-1989).

Tomalevski House, L&V Architects,Vladimir Bogdanov Tomalevski Design 2007

2010-11-04T23:19:00.001-07:00

Tomalevski House, L&V Architects,Vladimir Bogdanov Tomalevski Design 2007
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Dramatic new contemporary home located at 2761 Glendower Avenue n Los Feliz. Seen from the street, the house has a stunning blue-metal piece jutting out of the roof (seen in the accompanying photo). A short walk down the adjacent stair-street reveals this stunning composition. The house was recently listed for sale and is currently (August 2010) in escrow at an asking price of $1.79M.

Ben Platt Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1926 & Albert E. Hansen (1929)

2010-11-04T23:18:00.001-07:00

Ben Platt Residence, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1926 & Albert E. Hansen (1929)
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Gurdwara Vermont Sikh Temple, Concept Techology Architects 1996

2010-11-04T23:16:00.003-07:00

Gurdwara Vermont Sikh Temple, Concept Techology Architects 1996
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Our Lady of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960

2010-11-04T23:16:00.001-07:00

Our Lady of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The Architect Anthony A. Kauzor was a notable designer of mid-20th century church architecture in Southern California. For the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles he also designed St. Finbar Church of Burbank (1940), the Church of the Nativity in Torrance (1938), and St. Matthias Church in Huntington Park (1951).

Horton Hall, 2041 N. Vermont Avenue

2010-11-04T23:14:00.001-07:00

Horton Hall, 2041 N. Vermont Avenue
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

A four story French Normandy Apartment Building located at 2041 N. Vermont Avenue in Los Feliz.

Pill House, George A. Sullivan, Architect 1927

2010-11-04T23:13:00.001-07:00

Pill House, George A. Sullivan, Architect 1927
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Pill House, designed in 1927 for C.H. Pill by Architect George A. Sullivan. The house has been beautifully restored and updated with many original architectural details intact. My friend, realtor Maryann Kuk has the listing on the house which is listed at $2.5M (August 2010). Located at 2545 N. Vermont Avenue.

Our Mother of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960

2010-11-04T23:12:00.001-07:00

Our Mother of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Our Mother of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, Anthony A. Kauzor, Architect 1960

Adams House; William Adams, FAIA; architect 1994

2010-11-04T23:11:00.003-07:00

Adams House; William Adams, FAIA; architect 1994
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Aberdeen Castle, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1931

2010-11-04T23:11:00.001-07:00

Aberdeen Castle, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1931
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Fred G. Olsen, President of Olsen Baking Company had this medieval castle designed for him by Paul R. Williams in 1931. Located at 2612 Aberdeen Avenue.

David H. Miller Residence, Paul Williams Architect 1926

2010-11-04T23:10:00.001-07:00

David H. Miller Residence, Paul Williams Architect 1926
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

A two story English Tudor residence, designed for David H. Miller House by Paul R. Williams in 1926. Located at 2601 Aberdeen Avenue.

Insley House, Edith Northman, Architect 1940; John Pugliese Remodel 2010

2010-11-04T23:09:00.003-07:00

Insley House, Edith Northman, Architect 1940; John Pugliese Remodel 2010
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Designed for Charles E. Insley by Architect Edith Nortman in 1940; currently the residence of Oscar E. Leidenfrost of Leidenfrost/Horowitz & Associates of Burbank. The house is currently in the process of being remodeled by next-door neighbor Architect John Pugliese. Located at 5714 Briarcliff Road.

Briarcliff View, John Pugliese AIA 2010

2010-11-04T23:09:00.001-07:00

Briarcliff View, John Pugliese AIA 2010
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Designed by the architect as his personal residence. The house will be featured on the 2010 AIA Los Angeles Chapter Fall Home Tour. Located at 5720 Briarcliff Road.

Boston House, C.J.Smale, Architect 1924

2010-11-04T09:04:00.001-07:00

Boston House, C.J.Smale, Architect 1924
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Italianate Mediterranean style mansion designed for W.O. Boston by Architect C.J. Smale in 1924. The house was later owned by composer Charles T. Haubiel. The vintage home is currently (September 2010) on the market and priced at $1,899,000. Realtor Brian Moore, who has the listing on the house, gave me a tour yesterday, September 7, 2010. The two story house is described as a "Grande Dame", with period details in over 4000 sq. feet of living space. The two-story entry foyer is especially impressive, with its grand staircase, original marble floors, and second story cloistered mezzanine. Located at 4941 Ambrose Avenue.

Lawrence Gray House, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1927

2010-11-04T09:03:00.003-07:00

Lawrence Gray House, Paul R. Williams, Architect 1927
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Williams designed the house for Henry and Mamie Gray, parents of Lawrence Gray, a leading man in films between 1925 and 1936. The actor lived with his parents while working as a production superintendent at Paramount Studios when friends (including Bebe Daniels) suggested he take up acting. He got his break in 1925 when he landed a starring role in “The Dressmaker from Paris.” His credits include 45 films, appearing opposite Marion Davies, Joan Crawford, and Louise Brooks. After 1936, he was involved in production and acted as a liaison between American and Mexican film companies. He passed away February 2, 1970 in Mexico City. The house is located at 5112 Ambrose Avenue.

Weir House, Harley S. Bradley, Archtect 1923

2010-11-04T09:03:00.001-07:00

Weir House, Harley S. Bradley, Archtect 1923
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Designed for Mrs. Janetta Weir by Architect Harley S. Bradley in 1923. The address of the house at that time was 5040 Ambrose Ave. (the address was changed to 5100 Ambrose in 1924).

The house was purchased in 1926 by Oil Executive Clarence E. Olmsted. Olmstead was President and General Manager of The Texas Company (Texaco). Mr. Olmsted engaged the services of Architect H. Roy Kelley in 1933 to make additions and changes to the house. Located at 5100 Ambrose Avenue.

Kyle House, Milton J. Black, Architect 1936

2010-11-04T09:02:00.001-07:00

Kyle House, Milton J. Black, Architect 1936
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Architect Milton J. Black designed the house for R.C. Kyle in a "Regency Monterey" style; the influence of Black's trademark Streamline Moderne style is evident. Located at 2400 Chiselhurst Drive.

Postmodern House c. 1980

2010-11-04T08:29:00.001-07:00

Postmodern House c. 1980
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

I drove by this very interesting house on my way home from a lot I have listed at 5659 Tuxedo Terrace. The architecture definitely caught my eye. Located at 5758 Tuxedo Terrace in the Los Feliz Oaks.

Laura F. Anderson Residence, Harry Hayden Whiteley, Architect 1928

2010-11-04T08:28:00.001-07:00

Laura F. Anderson Residence, Harry Hayden Whiteley, Architect 1928
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Original design by Architect Harry Hayden Whiteley for Builder John W. Blank. It was the home of Art Professor and nationally-recognized Ceramist Laura F. Anderson for many years. Miss Anderson taught art at UCLA beginning in 1932, and was appointed to the Municipal Art Commission by Mayor Norris Poulson (1953-57). Located at 1950 N. Edgemont Street.

Autry Western Heritage Museum, Charles A. Widom & Michael Heinrich, Architect 1987-89

2010-11-04T08:27:00.001-07:00

Autry Western Heritage Museum, Charles A. Widom & Michael Heinrich, Architect 1987-89
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Autry Western Heritage Museum, Charles A. Widom & Michael Heinrich, Architect 1987-89. The banded tower and tile roof suggest the Spanish Revival style in a post-modern sort of way. The Autry National Center was formed in 2003, in a merger of the Autry Museum of Western Heritage and the Southwest Museum of the American Indian and the Women of the West Museum. The center explores the diverse culturess of the American West with a collection of over 500,000 pieces of art and artifacts. The Autry Institute includes two research libraries: the Braun Research Library and the Autry Library. Exhibitions, public programs, K–12 educational services, and publications are designed to examine critical issues of society, offering insights into solutions and the contemporary human condition through the Western historical experience. Located at 4700 Western Heritage Way in Griffith Park.

Cadman Drive Mediterranean Revival c.2008

2010-11-04T08:26:00.001-07:00

Cadman Drive Mediterranean Revival c.2008
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Recently-built (2008) Mediterranean Revival home in the Los Feliz district of Los Angeles. The four bedroom, five bath home has 4700 sq. feet of living space and is currently (October 2010) for sale for $1,595,000. Located at 3636 Cadman Drive, a cul-de-sac street that adjoins Griffith Park.

Beaton House "La Casa Contenta" c.1929

2010-11-04T08:18:00.001-07:00

Beaton House "La Casa Contenta" c.1929
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Los Angeles Historian Charles E. Fisher, on a recent visit to the house speculated that the Spanish Revival style house may be the work of Architect George Wyman, most noted for the design of the Bradbury Building. The house was built by Durex Quality Homes, a division of the F.P. Fay Company, headquartered at the Third and Hill F.P. Fay Building, where, according to Charles Fisher, George Wyman kept his office, a stone's throw from the Bradbury Building.

KCET Studios, 4401 West Sunset Boulevard

2010-11-04T08:17:00.001-07:00

KCET Studios, 4401 West Sunset Boulevard
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Prior to its purchase in 1970 by KCET's parent company, Community Televison of Southern California, the studio was one of the earliest movie production studios in Los Angeles and was the home of several motion picture firms including Monogram, ColorVision and Allied Artists. The Keystone Kops, Charlie Chaplin and Fatty Arbuckle all made movies here. A few of the notable films produced here include 'Friendly Persuasion', 'Hurricane' and 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers'. The property has been the home of KCET, a public broadcast station since 1971.

The KCET Studios are located at 4401 West Sunset Drive in the Los Feliz Village area. Due to its historic significance, the property was declared an Historic-Cultural Monument in the City of Los Angeles in 1978 (No. 198).

Vista Theater c.1923

2010-11-04T08:16:00.003-07:00

Vista Theater c.1923
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

The Mission Revival Theater was originally called "Bard's East Hollywood Theater when it was built in 1923. The interior, lobby and ticket booth are designed in an Egyptian Revival Style, popularized by the discovery of King's Tut tomb in Egypt, the year before. Located at 4473 Sunset Drive in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles..

Alice & Webster Miller Residence, E. P. Chapton, Architect, 1927

2010-11-04T08:16:00.001-07:00

Alice & Webster Miller Residence, E. P. Chapton, Architect, 1927
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Elmer Ralphs, Miller’s son-in-law in 1930, lived here. Ralphs was a son of Walter Ralphs, grandson of the Walter Ralphs that founded the Ralphs Grocery chain in 1873. Ralphs was living with his in-laws while another home was being built for him at 2401 Nottingham Avenue. Located at 4941 Finley Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles..

Glendower Avenue House, 2002 Remodel

2010-11-04T08:15:00.001-07:00

Glendower Avenue House, 2002 Remodel
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Located at 2681 Glendower Road in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, the house underwent extensive remodeling between 1997 and 2002 according to building permits. I'd love to know who is responsible for the highly sculptural design.

John Philip Law House, "The Castle", A.F. Leicht, Architect 1924

2010-11-04T08:14:00.003-07:00

John Philip Law House, "The Castle", A.F. Leicht, Architect 1924
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Known as a "rocker road house" throughout the 1960s and 70s, Actor John Philip Law leased the house at various times to the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Andy Warhol and Barry McGuire of the New Christy Minstrels.

Located at 2630 Glendower Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Skolnik House, R.M. Schindler, Architect 1951

2010-11-04T08:14:00.001-07:00

Skolnik House, R.M. Schindler, Architect 1951
Originally uploaded by Michael Locke

Rudolph Schindler designed over 500 homes and buildings during a long career beginning with his own house in West Hollywood in 1922; the house for Samuel Skolnik was one of his last, completed in 1952. He died on August 22, 1953. The Skolnik House is located at 2567 Glendower Avenue in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Los Feliz is a Great Neighborhood!

2010-11-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Donna and I packed our bags and moved from Silver Lake to Los Feliz in November 2007. We were fortunate to relocate to a fantastic old Spanish Revival house, formerly the home of the Beaton Family of radio fame. William Beaton was President and Chairman of the Board of KIEV Radio 1961-1985 (his sons Fred and Ron took control of the station after his death). Shortly after moving in, Donna and I attended a New Year's Eve party in Silver Lake at the home of Dave Keitel and Shelley Marks (Silver Lake Reservoirs Conservancy). Tom LaBonge was among the guests that evening; as we shared about our move from Silver Lake to Los Feliz Tom inquired, "Where in Los Feliz?" After giving him our new address, he immediately replied, "Oh, you live in the Beaton House, I used to go swimming there as a child."
While we still have a great affection for Silver Lake, Los Feliz is our new home and we are really enjoying being on a "perpetual holiday"! Living at the foot of Griffith Park with its unspoiled trails and living in our dream home and appreciating the beautiful architecture as well as our neighbors has been a dream come true.

Walking the neighborhood, I plan on bringing my camera along as often as possible. I trust you will share my appreciation for Los Feliz in the pictures and stories about our community. Visit us regularly and enjoy the journey! Photo of the Beaton House "La Casa Contenta", our home in Los Feliz.