Richard Neutra's Hendershot House, an architectural gem nestled in Los Angeles's Nichols Canyon, has been listed for sale with an asking price of $5.95 million. This distinguished property, originally designed in 1962 and later enhanced by Neutra's son Dion, embodies the architect's profound understanding of form and environment. Recently revitalized through an award-winning restoration, the residence offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern livability, showcasing Neutra's iconic design principles. Its connection to nature, through features like ribbon windows and expansive glass walls overlooking a natural creek, makes it a truly remarkable and irreplaceable piece of architectural heritage.
Architectural Legacy and Design Philosophy
The Hendershot House, designed by the celebrated architect Richard Neutra in 1962 for Robert Hendershot and Harumi Taniguchi, represents a pinnacle of his refined architectural style. Situated in Los Angeles's scenic Nichols Canyon, this iconic residence, later expanded by Neutra's son Dion, embodies a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. Featured in the authoritative 2010 Taschen monograph, "Neutra. Complete Works," the home's design emphasizes clean lines, ribbon windows, and deep overhangs, all meticulously crafted to respond to its sloping canyon site. A recent award-winning restoration in 2023 further enhanced its original splendor, ensuring its continued prominence as a landmark of mid-century modern architecture.
Neutra's design philosophy for the Hendershot House centered on integrating the structure seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The listing highlights "ribbon windows, deep overhangs, full-height sliding glass walls, and a masterful response to a sloping canyon site sheltered by native trees and canyon plantings enjoyed from nearly every room in the house." These elements allow residents to experience the tranquility of the lush landscape from within. The 3,371-square-foot, three-level home features four decks, floating stairs, and a flexible space that opens to a broad wooden terrace overlooking a rare Los Angeles natural creek. Acquired by architect Eve Steele in 2017, who knew the original owners, the house has been preserved as both a sound, livable space and an invaluable historical asset, reflecting Neutra's enduring vision of architecture as a bridge between humanity and nature.
Modern Renovations and Unparalleled Features
The Hendershot House, a testament to Richard Neutra's architectural genius, has recently undergone an extensive and acclaimed renovation, bringing its timeless design into the 21st century while preserving its historical integrity. This restoration, which garnered an AIA|LA Emerging Practice Award, meticulously updated the residence to meet contemporary standards of comfort and sustainability without compromising its original aesthetic. The integration of modern amenities with Neutra's signature style ensures that the home remains not only a significant historical artifact but also a highly functional and desirable living space. The property's current market offering underscores its appeal to discerning buyers who value both historical significance and modern luxury.
The current listing for the Hendershot House showcases its unique blend of architectural innovation and natural beauty. Spanning 3,371 square feet across three levels, the residence features a thoughtfully designed layout that includes four spacious decks, elegant floating stairs, and a versatile area that seamlessly transitions through glass walls to an expansive wooden terrace. This outdoor living space provides stunning views of a rare natural creek and wooded arroyo, offering a private sanctuary in the heart of Los Angeles. The meticulous renovation in 2023 ensured that the home’s structural integrity and aesthetic details were preserved, making it "as sound and presently livable as it is historically irreplaceable." The result is a home that offers both luxurious living and a deep connection to its serene natural environment, a hallmark of Neutra's visionary designs.