Check this out: Richard Neutra’s innovative office, hidden by time in plain sight, is at 2379 Glendale Blvd. The Neutra Office Building is a sleek 4,800 SqFt space in the vibey Silver Lake area of LA. Designed and owned by the legendary Modernist architect Richard Neutra in 1950, this spot was his creative playground and studio until he passed away in 1970. It’s a big deal in the architectural world—officially a historic cultural monument and a top-notch entry on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a must-see for any Richard Neutra Silver Lake architecture student or local looking to geek out on Modernist design! Grab a delicious burger across the street @burgersneversaydie and enjoy the show!
In 1950, Richard Neutra crafted the Silver Lake office building as the home for his architectural practice. Collaborating with his son, Dion Neutra, who served as the project architect and contractor for Red Marsh, Neutra envisioned a functional and elegant space. This single-story structure features two reception areas, two conference rooms, and a spacious open office environment, seamlessly blending professional and residential elements.
Neutra experimented constantly. He embraced technology, oddly enough, as a way to connect man with nature. His philosophy of “biorealism” sought to use biological sciences in architecture “so that design exploited, with great sophistication, the realm of the senses and an interconnectedness to nature that he believed fundamental and requisite to human well-being,” Barbara Lamprecht.
Modernist Architect Richard Neutra permeates throughout Silver Lake. This building is considered a significant piece of L.A. history, where many of Richard Neutra’s most celebrated designs were conceived. He crafted iconic structures within its walls, such as the U.S. Embassy in Karachi, the Los Angeles Hall of Records, the Gettysburg Cyclorama, the Orange County Courthouse, and the Huntington Beach Public Library. Even after Neutra’s passing in 1970, the architectural practice continued to flourish here under the stewardship of his son, Dion Neutra, who carried on the legacy until the 1990s. The building stands not only as a testament to Neutra’s vision but also as a vibrant reminder of the enduring impact of his work.
Renowned primarily for his innovative residential designs, Richard Neutra’s Silver Lake Office Building is the only surviving commercial structure that fully preserves his original vision. As described on the Neutra website, the building is hailed as “the sole intact example of Neutra’s commercial design.” Promotional materials further celebrate it as “a pristine representation of the work of one of Modernism’s most influential architects” and emphasize its uniqueness as “the only surviving Neutra commercial structure with its original appearance.” In recognition of its architectural significance, the building was designated a Historic-Cultural Monument (HCM #676) by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission in 2000, and it was listed in the National RLake
“Architecture is the will of an epoch translated into space.” – Richard Neutra
At the rear of the building, two residential units are nestled around an enclosed garden, creating a serene retreat. Meticulously preserved by Dion Neutra, the building retains many original features, including custom strip lighting, acoustic tiles, exposed ductwork, operable louvers, and the striking blue Aklo glass, all of which speak to Neutra’s timeless vision.
Written on the scene by David Clark, an Angeleno who has cultivated his passions for NELA to become a top producing agent with The Shelhamer Real Estate Group. David resides locally and draws inspiration from architecturally significant properties, local folklore, and his Epicurious and artistic lifestyle.
Reach out and connect with me in the comments., or discuss Neutra Silver Lake architecture. I’d love to hear about what’s in your neighborhood and the vibrant new businesses and movements that have caught your eye and grabbed your attention.
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