Sherwood House – Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument #913
Built: 1953 Declared: 2/5/2013
Tucked away in the hills of Los Feliz, Sherwood House at 3435 Amesbury Drive is a hidden architectural gem. Designated as Historic-Cultural Monument (HCM) #1026 in 2013, this Mid-Century Modern home is a standout example of the era's design, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Whether you’re an architecture buff or just love discovering Los Angeles' historic homes, Sherwood House is a must-know.
Sherwood House: A Mid-Century Modern Gem in Los Feliz
Built in 1953, Sherwood House reflects the hallmark characteristics of Mid-Century Modern architecture—clean lines, open spaces, and an emphasis on integrating indoor and outdoor living. Designed by Louis Sherwood and Calvin Straub, the house remains a testament to the post-war design movement that shaped much of Los Angeles' architectural landscape.
Sherwood himself, after whom the house is named, designed the home as his private residence. The Mid-Century design features large windows that flood the home with natural light and provide stunning views of the surrounding hillsides—a hallmark of the style, which prioritizes harmony between structure and environment.
Architectural Highlights of Sherwood House (3435 Amesbury Drive)
One of the most striking features of Sherwood House is its integration with the natural landscape. The home’s low-slung rooflines and expansive windows create a seamless transition between the inside and the lush greenery outside. This is typical of Mid-Century Modern homes in Los Angeles, where architects sought to blend the boundaries between interior living spaces and nature.
Inside, the layout is practical yet elegant, staying true to the "form follows function" principle of the era. Built-in furniture and open floor plans define the interior, offering a minimalist aesthetic that feels timeless even today.
Calvin Straub’s Influence on Mid-Century Modern Design
While Louis Sherwood played a key role in designing the house, the influence of Calvin Straub, a renowned Southern California architect, can’t be overlooked. Straub was a key figure in California's Mid-Century Modern movement, and his work is known for its use of natural materials like wood and stone, blending the man-made with the organic.
At Sherwood House, Straub's design philosophy is on full display. The home’s earthy materials and flowing connection to the outdoors make it a quintessential example of Mid-Century architecture in Los Feliz. Straub, often called the "Father of California Post and Beam architecture," left a legacy that still holds true today!