A collaboration between Assembledge+ and Jamie Bush has resulted in the classic slice of Californian modernism, perched in a Los Angeles canyon plot. Assembledge+, a Los Angeles design practice founded by David Thompson in 1997, has come together with Jamie Bush of Jamie Bush + Co., to reimagine a 1923 structure with a comprehensive overhaul that enhances and extends all of its storied history.
Set in one of the residential canyons that defines the western fringes of LA, the Rustic Canyon Residence was re-modelled just 14 years after completion. The architect involved? Richard Neutra, perhaps the most significant of all American modernist architects in the first half of the twentieth century. America’s love affair with mid-century modernism blows hot and cold, and while some of Neutra’s oeuvre is rightly celebrated, other houses are still being demolished.
That was the fate of the original house on the Rustic Canyon plot, way back in 1993. In its place arrived what was described by the architects as a ‘Post-Modern replacement [that] fell short of the original vision’. Not the house has been overhauled once again, this time with the full embrace of the original modernist spirit, as well as ‘touches of Japanese and Brazilian modernism.’
The project has touched every facet of the house from the physical structure to the furnishings and landscaping. Arranged across three levels, the 8,000 sq ft house retains its upper level – and best treetops views – for the primary bedroom. This is reached by a book-lined library corridor, with a generous walk-in closet, private study and separate balcony. On the main floor of the L-shaped plan you’ll find the primary reception rooms, with the large double height living room and kitchen flanked by south-facing decking.
A family room is tucked into the north-eastern corner, while at the other end of the house are twin en-suite bedrooms. Below this is the entrance level, where a staircase leads straight up from the parking level to the reception floor. Down here there’s also a garage, as well as further generous suite, a home theatre, gymnasium and music room, together with utility spaces and a laundry.
The treehouse comparison is an appropriate one, for the high-set site offers far-reaching views over the edge of the canyon to the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This verdant spot is home to well-patinated and much-loved homes by the likes of Ray Kappe, Lloyd Wright and Neutra himself. The cladding, used both inside and out, is Western Red Cedar, creating an interlocking series of interior spaces that are enhanced by rich flooring materials and epic views.
Key feature elements include a custom interior mural on the fireplace by Stan Bitters, evoking Brutalist style, and the Bush and his team have sourced pieces by artisans and makers, with a special focus on wooden pieces by the likes of Dan John Anderson, the late JB Blunk and Casey Johnson.
The materials palette continues this emphasis on craft and warmth, with brick, cork, black metal and oak. There are connections with the landscape wherever possible, making this a true inside-outside living space in the modernist tradition, all accessed through sliding glass doors.
Chris Sosa Landscape and Terremoto both worked on the drought-resistance landscaping, which includes overhanging trellises and native planting across a series of terraces. There’s also an infinity pool and spa in the grounds, adding to the sense of a private retreat, close to the beating heart of Los Angeles, yet shielded against its excesses.
Photography was by Yoshihiro Makino and styling by Amy Chin.
Assembledge.com, @Assembledge
JamieBush.com, @JamieBushCo
