It’s been a difficult start to the year, and one which will be unforgettable for us living in Los Angeles. The deadly fires of January have been catastrophic for the LA community, impacting us all in some way or another. Personally, speaking as an interior designer and stylist, I think of the role of the home and the objects which we choose to surround ourselves with, now gone for some and irreparably damaged for others.
The home is a sanctuary, a safe haven. For approximately 200,000 people, 29 of them tragically lost, this sanctuary was destroyed or irreparably damaged. There are so many heartbreaking stories from friends, colleagues and acquaintances of the loss of irreplaceable sentimental memorabilia along with their beloved furniture or artwork, let alone the materials used throughout a home that bring so much joy. For Los Angeles and the Palisades, some of these buildings were not just homes, but iconic landmarks – celebrated architectural gems seen across the LA landscape for decades.
Notable icons like Richard Neutra’s Kessler House, entire Modernist neighborhoods like the Park Planned homes by Gregory Ain, and the 708 House by Eric Owen Moss, were tragically consumed by wildfires within hours. These losses are a reminder of the fragility of our built environment and the importance of preserving our architectural heritage.
Los Angeles was home to many architectural gems. Richard Neutra was a leading architect of Mid-Century Modern within the region and helped to introduce the International Style to the city. His work is known for its open floor plans, large windows, and integration of indoor and outdoor spaces – suited for the Californian climate.
It has been difficult to write about these recent events, knowing the sadness and destruction still around us. However, it has also highlighted the crucial work of organizations like Save Iconic Architecture. This incredible charity tirelessly campaigns to preserve architectural icons in the city, achieving the protection of numerous Modernist buildings through lobbying, spreading awareness, and organizing fundraising initiatives.
I first encountered Save Iconic Architecture on Instagram, and their work is a testament to the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. They shine a light on both the well-known and lesser-known architectural gems of Los Angeles, celebrating the diversity of talented designers who shaped our city.
The iconic 1991 Bridges House, built and designed by architect Robert Bridges was lost in January’s fires. This icon is something I’ve driven past weekly for the last few years of living in LA.
The aftermath of the Bridges House fire
The devastating losses from the fires serve as a stark reminder to cherish and protect the history and cultural achievements that define us. As we rebuild and recover from these tragic events, I hope we will prioritize the preservation of our architectural legacy for generations to come.
While the fires are now off the international news it’s worth remembering there is a long way to go for the rebuild of certain parts of this city. Seeing the community pull together has been so heartwarming.
For those of you outside of the area, any donations to the following organisations will help to continue the rebuild: