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Van Dekker House: A Modernist Gem

Discover the Van Dekker House, a meticulously restored modernist masterpiece by Rudolph Schindler in Woodland Hills, once a haven for Hollywood's elite and a testament to architectural innovation.

The Van Dekker House, designed by renowned architect Rudolph Schindler in 1939 for actor Albert Van Dekker, stands as a significant example of modernist architecture in Woodland Hills. This historical landmark, also known as the Schindler House, showcases Schindler's innovative design principles, including its dramatic copper roof, use of natural light, and integration with the surrounding landscape. The house served as a gathering place for Hollywood elite and later home to screenwriter Al 'Buzz' Bezzerides. After years of neglect, the house was lovingly restored, earning a Los Angeles Conservancy Preservation Award. Today, the Van Dekker House remains a testament to Schindler's genius and a reminder of the golden age of Hollywood, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the entertainment industry.

A brief summary to Van Dekker House

  • 19950 Collier St, Woodland Hills, Woodland Hills, California, 91364, US
  • +1818-999-9999

Local tips

  • While the house is a private residence and not open for tours, drive by to admire its unique architecture from the street.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Topanga State Park for hiking and breathtaking views of the Santa Monica Mountains.
  • Explore other historical landmarks in Woodland Hills, such as the Leonis Adobe Museum, to delve deeper into the area's rich history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Ventura Freeway (US-101), exit at Topanga Canyon Blvd and head north. Turn right onto Ventura Blvd, then left onto Serrania Ave. Turn left onto Collier St. The Van Dekker House will be on your right. Parking is limited to street parking in the residential area.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Woodland Hills, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. Simply provide the address, 19950 Collier St, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, to the driver. Expect a fare of approximately $10-$15 from most locations within Woodland Hills. Be mindful of street parking regulations upon arrival.

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Discover more about Van Dekker House

Nestled in the rolling hills of Woodland Hills, the Van Dekker House is a testament to the visionary genius of Rudolph Schindler, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Designed in 1939 for Albert Van Dekker, a prominent stage and screen actor known for his roles in films like 'Dr. Cyclops' and 'The Wild Bunch,' this residence is more than just a house; it's a living piece of art that embodies the spirit of California modernism. Schindler, an Austrian immigrant who arrived in Los Angeles in 1920, sought to create spaces that blurred the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, harmonizing with the natural environment. The Van Dekker House exemplifies this philosophy, with its expansive windows, open floor plan, and integration of natural materials. The house is strategically positioned to maximize views of the surrounding hills, creating a sense of serenity and connection to nature. The Van Dekker House is notable as one of Schindler's largest residential commissions, spanning 3,756 square feet. Its design incorporates several of Schindler's signature elements, including a dramatic copper roof, geometric forms, and the use of natural light to create a dynamic interplay of shadows and reflections. The interior spaces are characterized by clean lines, built-in cabinetry, and a seamless flow between rooms, reflecting Schindler's commitment to functional and aesthetically pleasing design. The house's history is as rich and fascinating as its architecture. Albert Van Dekker, the original owner, was a prominent figure in Hollywood, and the house served as a gathering place for many of the era's leading actors, writers, and artists. Humphrey Bogart, John Wayne, Clark Gable, and Robert Mitchum were among the many famous people who frequented the Van Dekker House, making it a hub of creativity and social activity. In the early 1950s, Van Dekker's career took a turn when he was blacklisted for his outspoken criticism of Senator McCarthy's anti-communist tactics. Forced to sell the house, he passed it on to his friend and collaborator, Al 'Buzz' Bezzerides, a prolific film noir screenwriter known for his work on films like 'They Drive By Night' and 'Kiss Me Deadly.' Bezzerides lived in the house until his death in 2007, preserving its legacy as a haven for creative minds. Over the years, the Van Dekker House suffered from neglect and deferred maintenance, falling into a state of disrepair. The copper roof deteriorated, windows were broken and boarded up, and the once-pristine interiors were marred by water damage and decay. By the early 2000s, the house was in danger of being demolished, its future uncertain. Fortunately, the Van Dekker House was rescued by a series of dedicated preservationists who recognized its historical and architectural significance. In 2009, the house was designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, providing it with protection from demolition. Subsequently, the house was purchased by Frank Gamwell, a construction executive with a passion for historic preservation, who undertook a meticulous restoration of the property. Gamwell's restoration project was a labor of love, involving extensive research, careful planning, and the use of skilled craftsmen to recreate the original design details. The copper roof was painstakingly replaced, window by window, and the interiors were restored to their former glory. Gamwell also incorporated modern amenities and energy-efficient systems into the house, ensuring its long-term sustainability. The restoration of the Van Dekker House was widely praised by architectural historians and preservationists, earning a prestigious Preservation Award from the Los Angeles Conservancy in 2016. Today, the house stands as a shining example of how historic buildings can be preserved and adapted for contemporary living. The Van Dekker House is not open to the public, as it is a private residence. However, its significance as a landmark of California modernism and its connection to the golden age of Hollywood make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. While you cannot tour the interior, you can admire the house from the street and appreciate its unique design and historical context. Visiting the Van Dekker House offers a glimpse into the lives of Albert Van Dekker, Al 'Buzz' Bezzerides, and the many other creative individuals who shaped the cultural landscape of Los Angeles. It's a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage and celebrating the visionaries who dared to imagine a better world through design. As you stand before the Van Dekker House, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and ingenuity of Schindler's architecture, the rich history of the house, and the dedication of those who worked to save it. It's a testament to the power of architecture to inspire, to connect us to the past, and to shape our understanding of the present.

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