Vertiginous Modernism, $2.05M

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In the early 1960s, the great LA Modernist Richard Neutra began a project on a steep hillside in Sherman Oaks overlooking the vast San Fernando Valley, dubbed the Platform Houses. After falling out with the developers, Neutra retreated and the project of seventeen houses cantilevered over the canyon was completed by the then-young Modernist architect William S. Beckett. Visually and structurally challenging, they would go on to become part of LA’s built identity and an expression of postwar optimism.

Like so many properties of the era, the houses survive in various conditions, but this one, which came on the market last week, had the good luck to be owned by architect Don Goldstein, who sensitively renovated it in the spirit of Richard Neutra’s original work.

Beyond walling off the street front in stone for privacy, Goldstein made numerous alterations, including steel skylights and new windows, and cladding the exterior in blackened steel.

The skylit dining room has a climate-controlled wine wall.

In Neutra style, beautifully detailed stone cladding and warm woods continue inside.

What We Love: This is the perfect 1-person aerie and the ideal setting for a well-curated decorative arts collection.

More: Go to the listing for additional details and images, plus a video and a 3D tour. An outstanding opportunity to acquire a property with architectural pedigree in perfect, updated condition, represented by Michelle Schwartz at The Agency.

Photo Credit: Andrew Orozco