![]() ![]() Fortunately, they made no presumptuous changes to architect Kaufmann’s elegantly designed residence. Trees and shrubs were planted along the northern and southern lot line oak, sycamore, and eucalyptus trees were planted in the ravine below the house, so that they would grow into a forest and offer greater beauty and seclusion.īefore the landscape had achieved its full, mature beauty, the Martins left Carolwood, and a series of new owners held the estate over the next few decades. The landscape plan assured that, over time, the estate would have a private, countrified atmosphere, even though it was minutes away from Beverly Hills and Westwood Village. ![]() Upstairs, the master bedroom suite occupied the sunlit southern end of the house, which had the best views toward the city. The dining room, kitchen and service areas, and garages were placed at the less desirable northern end. Kaufmann located the library and living room at the house’s southern end, where they would catch the sun all day. The house – of necessity –was given a long, narrow shape to fit the lot. Kaufmann minimized the drawbacks to the Martins’ two-acre lot: its long, narrow configuration, and its steep slope (virtually a cliff) down to the bridle trail (the seasonal streambed) between Carolwood and Baroda Drives. Kaufmann, who designed an Italian Mediterranean–style two-story home that was elegant in every way, yet restrained in its decorative treatment. An investment banker and real estate man, he was active in local projects such as the construction of the Civic Center and Union Station in downtown Los Angeles and the opening of the Municipal Airport, now LAX.įor their architect, the Martins wisely chose Gordon B. In 1929, James and Pauline Martin moved into their new 10,000-square-foot home in Holmby Hills. Rarely does a legendary estate come fully into its own under the auspices of later owners. In the second act, the estate is purchased by someone who fails to appreciate its beauty and history, who undertakes ill-advised renovations and additions, or who simply demolishes the mansion and subdivides the land. In the first act, the original-and usually well-known-owner creates a masterpiece of architecture and landscaping, an estate that excites the envy of friends and neighbors, and sometimes an estate where the famous and infamous party and play. ![]() In the history of a legendary estate, all too often the first act is better, more exciting, and vastly more interesting than the second or third acts. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |