By Philip Ferrato
Asking: $789,900
What: Designed by Jones & Emmons for Joseph Eichler’s ground-breaking 1964 Balboa Highlands development, this 5-bed, 2-bath classic was purchased fifty-two years ago by a pair of steadfast Modernist owners– Frances and Larry– a couple who have done an extraordinary job of maintaining the original’s design and details.
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From the Listing: “Originally looking into building their own home in Brentwood with the help of Case Study architect Pierre Koenig, Frances noticed signs for a modern community, just North off of the 405 fwy. Larry and Frances drove up to see these modern tract homes and instantly agreed they had found a place to call home. They’ve lived here ever since, but now the time has come for someone new to discover this hidden gem in the Valley.”
Entry is through the carport into a classic atrium, above and below. Delivering modern design at an affordable price five decades ago, this was an exceptional house in 1964. It still is.
What We Love: No paint has ever touched the original tongue-and-groove ceilings or the seamless sheets of Luan mahogany paneling, and vintage design icons scattered throughout the house (George Nelson pendant lamps, a wall clock, Eames seating in various configurations) are all artifacts of a well-lived Modernist life, not staging. Below, even the built-in blender in the original kitchen still works.