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Stahl House: A Mid-Century Modern Marvel

Experience the iconic Stahl House, a masterpiece of mid-century modern architecture in the Hollywood Hills, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Los Angeles' golden age of design.

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Perched high in the Hollywood Hills, the Stahl House, also known as Case Study House #22, is an iconic representation of mid-century modern architecture and the California dream. Designed by Pierre Koenig in 1959, this glass-and-steel residence offers breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles. Its innovative design, characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape, has made it a symbol of architectural ingenuity and stylish living. Visiting the Stahl House is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of optimism and design innovation. The house's enduring fame is partly attributed to Julius Shulman's iconic photograph, capturing the essence of modern living in postwar Los Angeles. A tour of the Stahl House provides insights into the Stahl family's vision and the architectural brilliance of Pierre Koenig, making it a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts and anyone seeking a taste of Los Angeles history.

A brief summary to Stahl House

Local tips

  • Book your tour well in advance, as slots fill up quickly, especially for evening tours to see the sunset.
  • Consider arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service due to limited parking on the property.
  • Photography is allowed with cell phone cameras only, so bring your phone to capture the stunning views.
  • Be mindful of the neighborhood and adhere to all tour guidelines to respect the privacy of the residents.
  • Check the Stahl House website for specific parking instructions and tour details before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Stahl House is located at 1635 Woods Drive in the Hollywood Hills. From central Hollywood, take Laurel Canyon Boulevard north. Turn west onto Hollywood Boulevard, then north onto Crescent Heights Boulevard. Turn west onto Sunset Plaza Drive, then north onto Woods Drive. The Stahl House is on a private, gated road; enter '002' on the keypad at the white gate. Parking is very limited and specific instructions must be followed as outlined on the Stahl House website. All guests in your reservation must arrive in the same vehicle unless other arrangements have been made. Do not park on Woods Drive.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in the Hollywood area, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. Input 1635 Woods Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90069 as your destination. The driver must drop you off and leave the street. You can call for a return pickup towards the end of your tour. When you arrive at the private Woods Drive, pull up to the white gate, just past the 2 large white concrete posts. Enter the code “002” on the keypad and we will answer and open the gate remotely. A ride-share from central Hollywood will typically cost $15-$25, depending on traffic. Be sure to factor in potential surge pricing.

  • Public Transport

    While not the most direct, public transportation is an option. From Hollywood/Highland Station (Metro B Line), take the Metro Local Line 2 bus towards Westwood. Exit at Sunset/Crescent Heights. From there, it's approximately a 25-minute uphill walk (0.7 miles) to the Stahl House on Woods Drive. Be aware that the final portion of the walk is steep and on a road with limited sidewalks. A single Metro fare is $1.75. Consider using a ride-sharing service for the final leg from Sunset/Crescent Heights for convenience.

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Discover more about Stahl House

The Stahl House, also known as Case Study House #22, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of mid-century modern architecture. Designed by Pierre Koenig and completed in 1959, this residence is perched dramatically in the Hollywood Hills, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Los Angeles. More than just a house, it's a symbol of an era, a design philosophy, and the embodiment of the California dream. The story of the Stahl House began with Buck and Carlotta Stahl, who purchased the seemingly unbuildable lot for $13,000 in 1954. They envisioned a home that would capture the breathtaking views and reflect a modern way of living. After initial attempts with other architects, they found Pierre Koenig, a young and ambitious architect who embraced the challenges of the site and shared their vision. Koenig's design was a masterclass in simplicity and elegance. The house features an 'L' shaped plan, separating public and private spaces while maximizing the views from every room. The structure is primarily constructed of steel and glass, with floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. The flat roof and clean lines contribute to the home's minimalist aesthetic, while the swimming pool, positioned at the center of the 'L' shape, acts as a reflecting pool, mirroring the city lights and sky. The construction of the Stahl House was a feat of engineering, with the house seemingly floating on the edge of the hill. The use of prefabricated steel components allowed for rapid construction, with the main structure erected in a single day. The large panes of glass, some of the largest commercially available at the time, further enhanced the sense of openness and transparency. The Stahl House gained international recognition thanks to the iconic photographs of Julius Shulman. His images, particularly the one showing two women relaxing in the living room with the city lights twinkling below, captured the essence of modern living in Los Angeles and cemented the house's place in architectural history. Shulman's photographs not only showcased the beauty of the house but also conveyed the optimistic spirit of the postwar era. Over the years, the Stahl House has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertising campaigns, further solidifying its status as a cultural icon. It has also been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including being named a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1999 and being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. Today, the Stahl House is owned by the Stahl family, who have opened it to the public for tours. Visiting the house is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the world of mid-century modern design and the lifestyle it represented. The tours provide insights into the history of the house, the design process, and the challenges of building on such a unique site. Walking through the Stahl House, one can't help but be struck by the seamless integration of architecture and nature. The views are simply breathtaking, and the house feels both intimate and expansive at the same time. It's a place where one can imagine relaxing by the pool, enjoying a cocktail, and watching the sunset over the city. The Stahl House is more than just a building; it's a work of art, a symbol of innovation, and a testament to the power of vision and collaboration. It's a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture, design, or the history of Los Angeles. The Stahl House stands as a reminder of a time when architects and designers were pushing the boundaries of what was possible, creating homes that were not only beautiful but also functional and reflective of the modern age. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, its elegance, and its ability to capture the spirit of a city that has always been at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Visiting the Stahl House requires advance planning, as tours are limited and reservations are essential. However, the experience is well worth the effort, offering a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience a true architectural masterpiece. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a design lover, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, the Stahl House is sure to leave a lasting impression. The Stahl House is a testament to the vision of Buck and Carlotta Stahl and the genius of Pierre Koenig. It's a place where dreams were realized, and a legacy was created. It's a place where the past meets the present, and the future is always within sight. The Stahl House is not just a house; it's an experience, a journey, and a destination that will stay with you long after you've left. It's a place where you can connect with the history of Los Angeles, appreciate the beauty of modern design, and be inspired by the power of human creativity. The Stahl House is a true gem of Los Angeles, a place that embodies the spirit of innovation, creativity, and the California dream. It's a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of what this city has to offer.

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