Agents of Architecture, The Journal - Vol. 26 | San Diego
Hopefully everyone stayed safe and kept their homes dry these past few rainy weeks and are looking forward to some sun in the forecast.
For this volume, we have some remarkable properties to feature; a Richard Neutra designed home in Rancho Santa Fe, a Spanish Eclectic Revival by Ralph Hulburt and Charles Tifal in Bankers Hill, a Streamline Modern in Kensington, and several other amazing properties from Pauma Valley to Downtown. Our out-of-town featured listing is a wonderful Spanish Revival in the Beachwood Canyon neighborhood of Los Angeles.
In anticipation of Palm Springs Modernism (February 15-25) we are running a marketing campaign with Atomic Ranch magazine which will get special distribution during the event next week. The show will host a vintage modern furniture and art sale with dealers from all over the country, and of course there will be property tours of some incredible homes designed by architects such as Craig Ellwood, William Cody, William Krisel and many more. Here’s two pages to access tickets to most of the various tours. Modernism Week 2024 & USModernist - Modapalooza
We also wanted to share a few upcoming events hosted by some of our favorite San Diego organizations. Save Our Heritage Organization will be hosting a monthly Zoom lecture called ‘Penning the Past’ showcasing the vibrant history of San Diego's iconic neighborhoods and architecture. Here’s the link for more information on all the upcoming talks. Penning the Past
Agents of Architecture associate Keith York’s exhibition on architect Sim Bruce Richards is running at the San Diego History Center through March 10th. Keith has also authored a book on the life of Richards, who was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright and designed many remarkable homes in San Diego. The book ‘The Sensuous Environment: Sim Bruce Richards, Architect’ is available to purchase at our AofA gallery on Park Boulevard, San Diego History Center, the Mingei Museum, Book Catapult in South Park and SOHO's Marston House.
Hope you enjoy this month’s volume.
- Jeff Walker, Broker | Founder
Mid-Century Modern ‘The Marshall House’ by Richard Neutra
Rancho Santa Fe
Nestled within the highly sought-after West-Side Covenant, this exceptional gem stands apart, boasting unparalleled back country views from its elevated position on nearly 3 acres of secluded privacy.
A central figure to the expression of 20th century modernism in California, Neutra’s designs were celebrated internationally through the photography of Julius Shulman.
His five projects in San Diego County include the Marshall Residence (1952), Van Sicklin Residence, Rancho Santa Fe (1952), Airman Memorial Chapel, Miramar (1957), Oxley Residence, La Jolla (1958) and Dr. Robert E. Bond Residence, Alvarado Estates by SDSU (1960). Enjoy some more information on Neutra and vintage photos of these homes here.
Spanish Eclectic Revival by Ralph Hulburt and Charles Tifal
Bankers Hill
Gated entry presents urban oasis with manicured yard and dramatic succulents setting stage for an equally pristine light-filled interior.
Located just steps from the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge. A San Diego Historic Landmark, the bridge was built in 1912 and initially designed to provide pedestrians a passage across Kate Session Canyon to get the then newly-built streetcar lines on Fourth and Fifth Avenue.
Circa 1924 Craftsman
University Heights
This residence is full of charm and has been impeccably maintained. Walk to Trader Joe’s, Sprouts and all of the neighborhood shops. A few minutes drive to the Lafayette Hotel, which was recently renovated and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Circa 1958 Mid-Century Modern
La Jolla
A fantastic opportunity to own a beautiful single-level home offering open beam ceilings, hardwood floors, and original period tile. The knotty pine cabinets and wood paneling add to the charm.
The neighborhood is home to a number of Mid-Century Modern residences, including some remarkable custom designs as well as the La Jolla Scenic Heights tract with homes designed by William Krisel.
Loft Residence at Icon, Converted from a Factory Warehouse by Wayne Buss
East Village - Downtown
Step into a world of urban chic with this incredible loft residence. You'll revel in the open, airy space with high ceilings that give a sense of freedom.
The exposed concrete walls and black metal-framed windows exude an industrial charm that ignites your curiosity. The exposed ductwork adds character to the space, making it uniquely yours.
This residence is one of very few located in the original 1927 facade of the historic Carnation Dairy Factory, which processed milk for ice cream and other products until the 1970s.
Circa 1942 - Streamline Moderne
Kensington
This Kensington Park home has received a complete restoration of all the original hardwood floors, a large arch from the kitchen into the formal dining room providing an extensive view of the canyon, a complete rebuilding of the original fireplace by a professional fireplace mason and many more unique updates.
Streamline Moderne was an evolutionary step in architecture bridging the gap between Art Deco and what has become known as mid-century modern. These wonderful, white painted stucco, simple buildings appear as descendants of Irving Gill’s later period designs, the work of Adolf Loos and the Bauhaus in Europe. More on Streamline Moderne here
Conceived as a streetcar suburb, Kensington was composed of several subdivisions, with the first being Kensington Park, mapped on April 8, 1910. Local notable architect Richard Requa was involved in developing and designing the neighborhood.
Mid-Century Modern by Don Brandonburger
Pauma Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Pauma Valley Country Club and just a 2-minute stroll to the clubhouse restaurant and pro shop. This residence showcases Brandonburger's architectural prowess, celebrated not only throughout Pauma Valley but also among many Napa Valley wineries.
A testament to thoughtful design, the well-conceived floorplan emphasizes both privacy and breathtaking panoramic views. The interior is bathed in natural light, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that grace every room, creating a seamless connection with the outdoors.
Circa 1924 Spanish Revival
Beachwood Canyon - Los Angeles
A carefully crafted exterior offers panoramic views of the iconic Hollywood Hills and the sparkling city lights below. The architecture, lush landscaping, and a backyard oasis featuring a dining patio, citrus trees, and terraced pathways to a serene overlook create undeniable curb appeal.
Enter to encounter a vintage Murano chandelier welcoming you to an open-concept living space that effortlessly integrates with the breathtaking outdoor surroundings. Expansive windows flood the interior with natural light, enhancing the warm and inviting atmosphere.
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