Midcentury modern architecture lovers are well familiar with Richard Neutra. The prominent architect left quite a legacy of gorgeous, sleek creations from California to Connecticut, with many still in excellent condition thanks to caring owners. Director Marc Foster, celebrity stylist Jeanne Yang, and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers have all been part of that prestigious group.
In Los Angeles, a circa-1962 Richard Neutra gem currently belongs to architect Eve Steele, who restored it impeccably in a two-year process. The renovation earned wide praise, including an 2023 AIA|LA Board of Directors Emerging Practice Award. Her striking property is now up for sale, listed for only the second time in its history.
Priced at $5.95 million, Hendershot House (named for its original owner, Robert Hendershot) is a splendid example of Neutra at the top of his game. It’s outfitted with many of his signature touches like ribbon windows, deep overhangs, and full-height sliding glass walls connecting the interiors to the leafy setting. Speaking of the landscape, Neutra had to take great care in how to situate the home as it’s perched on a sloping, canyon site. This tricky location delivers exceptional views, of course, and the architecture emphasizes that marvelously.
Across the 3,371-square-foot home’s three levels, bright living spaces and four bedrooms await. Midcentury modern principles appear everywhere you look, from the organic simplicity of the kitchen to the seamless integration of stone and wood. It is larger than most Neutra homes, but there’s a story behind that. The famous architect’s son and partner, Dion Neutra, expanded the house in 1982 and another addition was executed by architect John Blanton, one of Neutra’s closest project architects, in 1994.
For those house-hunting in L.A. with an appreciation for Neutra’s work, this rare home will be tempting. Barry Gray and Mike Deasy of Compass share the listing.
