Singleton Residence | Richard Neutra
Bel Air, Los Angeles, CA | United States | 1959
The Fifties and early Sixties formed a period of great creativity and productivity for Richard Neutra. The majority of his residential commissions of this time were in California, whose temperate climate allowed him to perfect buildings that were closely connected to the landscape. Neutra tailored each house to his clients’ needs, aiming to create homes that were not only ergonomic, practical and engaging but could also improve well-being and make a better way of living. The Singleton House in Bel Air sits on an enticing site by Mulholland Drive. From this elevated positions, the views are extraordinary - taking in the city in one direction but also offering an open vista towards the San Gabriel Mountains. The home was commissioned by engineer-turned-industrialist and rancher Henry Singleton and his family; later, they also commissioned a house by Wallace Neff. Neutra’s single-level house capitalizes on the views - particulary, those of the mountains. The processional approach was engaging in itself, with a long series of steps leading up to the front entrance sitting under a pergola. Water pools around the main living spaces add another dimension - especially when the sliding glass walls retract and reflect the sky. Later, the house was renovated and updated by the late Vidal Sassoon and his wife Ronnie.
Images: © Studio Tim Campbell. All rights reserved.
Words: © thegreatdaydreamer
