Tuesday, 5 June 2012

Gregory Ain Designed Kaye Residence Available on the Market

4754 Vanalden Avenue
4 Beds/2.75 Baths on 3,167sqft on a total lot size of 0.35 acres built in 1963. This Mid Century Modern home is known as the Kaye Residence built by legendary architect Gregory Ain in Tarzana for Leon S. and Claire Kaye which occupied the home from 1963 to 1973. This home is also carries the Los Angeles Historical Cultural Monument #952 designation which was recently declared on April 22, 2009 which means it cannot be demolished or altered without approval. This home last sold on on June 6, 2008 for $1,350,000 and is currently available for $1,395,000. There is an open house this Sunday June 10 from 2 - 5 PM.

From Charles J. Fisher historian4hire.com:
This house was the last in the architect's California career prior to his move to Pennsylvania to head the Penn State architectural school. It has been noted in many publications as a marvel of how Ain Employed Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian principals in creating a design that not only creates a structure that is well blended with its surroundings, but is so as a two-story structure on a relatively flat lot. The house radiates from a focal point at the entrance with a central two story transverse wing toward either side of the entrance and two offset wings to the front and rear. The small hexagonal hipped roofs at the ends of the side and rear wings help to define the unique character of Ain's design. This was a departure from much of Ain's earlier work.
From the listing:
The Kaye House, Gregory Ain FAIA. Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument #952. This home presents a unique departure from the restrained, economical designs of Gregory Ain. Hexagonal walls and roofs are a theme throughout. Architects Fung & Blatt respect Ain in their thoughtful and meticulous restoration and renovations. The home provides four bedrooms and three bathrooms in a generous amount of living space. Pocket shoji screens enable division of the large, open living area into three distinct rooms. Set back from the street, the home is walled and gated for privacy. The large, beautifully landscaped lot with pool and spa provide a serene and luxurious setting. This property enjoys a reduced tax rate through the Mills Act tax abatement program. Open Sunday 6/10 2-5pm.









Images courtesy deasy/penner & partners