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Farnam House: A Mosaic Masterpiece

Discover the dazzling Farnam House in Santa Monica, a vibrant mosaic masterpiece showcasing the artistic passion of Louise and Aziz Farnam, transforming their home into a breathtaking landmark.

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The Farnam House in Santa Monica is a dazzling display of mosaic art, transforming an ordinary bungalow into an extraordinary landmark. Over many years, owners Louise and Aziz Farnam have meticulously adorned their home's exterior with millions of tiles, creating vibrant landscapes, seascapes, and portraits. This unique residence has become a beloved community staple, drawing visitors who marvel at its intricate designs and the sheer dedication behind its creation. The Farnam House stands as a testament to artistic expression and the power of transforming the mundane into the magnificent, offering a visual feast for anyone passing by and a delightful surprise in a quiet residential neighborhood. It's a must-see for art lovers and anyone seeking a touch of whimsy in their day.

A brief summary to Farnam House

  • 1098 26th St, Santa Monica, Northeast, California, 90403, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting to photograph the intricate mosaic details.
  • Be respectful of the neighborhood, as the Farnam House is a private residence.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Bergamot Station Arts Center for a full day of art exploration.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Santa Monica, take the Big Blue Bus Route 1 or 8 from the Santa Monica Transit Center. Ride towards the 26th St & Pico Blvd stop. Once you get off the bus, walk north on 26th St for about 5 minutes until you reach 1098 26th St. The Big Blue Bus fare is $1.10 per ride.

  • Walking

    If you are in Santa Monica, start at the Santa Monica Pier. Head northeast on Ocean Ave towards Colorado Ave. Continue straight onto Colorado Ave until you reach 26th St. Turn right onto 26th St and continue until you reach 1098 26th St. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 30 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the Santa Monica Pier, a taxi or ride-share to Farnam House will cost approximately $10-$15, depending on traffic. The ride is about 3 miles and takes around 10-15 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 1098 26th St, Santa Monica, CA 90403. Parking near Farnam House is primarily street parking, which can be limited. Be sure to check street signs for any parking restrictions. Some parking may be available on nearby streets like California Avenue. Parking meters, where available, typically cost $1-2 per hour.

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Discover more about Farnam House

The Farnam House, located in a quiet residential neighborhood of Santa Monica, is a breathtaking testament to the transformative power of art and the boundless creativity of its owners, Louise and Aziz Farnam. What began as a simple hobby has evolved into a stunning mosaic masterpiece that has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. The story of the Farnam House is as captivating as the artwork itself. Louise and Aziz Farnam, Iranian Jews, sought refuge in Los Angeles following the Iranian Revolution in 1979. They settled into a typical 1930s Southern California bungalow, where they raised their six children. In 2002, Louise took a mosaic class to support her son's school fundraiser, sparking a passion that would soon engulf their home. Initially, Louise created intricate mosaic designs on small tables, some taking up to six months to complete. However, her artistic vision quickly expanded beyond the confines of furniture. She began to adorn the exterior façade of the Farnam House with mosaics, transforming the ordinary bungalow into a vibrant canvas. Landscapes, seascapes, and even a portrait of the family macaw have been immortalized on the walls. Louise proudly proclaims that her mosaics depict "all of nature," showcasing representational images of apple trees, grapes, rivers, mountains, sky, birds, and fish. Her enthusiasm for the medium proved contagious, and her husband, Aziz, soon joined her in ornamenting the façades. The mosaic work extends around the side of the house, embellishing the retaining wall that surrounds the property and even adorning the back of the garage, which faces an alleyway. Found objects, including wall tiles, floor tiles, and ceramic plates, are incorporated into the design, sheathing all exterior surfaces. Louise estimates that over 15 million pieces of tile have been used in the creation of this extraordinary artwork. In contrast to the mosaic-covered exterior, the interior walls are not ornamented with tile. However, the interior is far from lacking in visual interest. The focal point of the living room is a mirrored fireplace, comprised of countless individually cut forms arranged from floor to ceiling. Mosaic-covered table and floor lamps, tables, vases, and picture frames, along with numerous Persian rugs, contribute to a colorful and vibrant display. The Farnams' dedication to their art is truly remarkable. They continue to embellish the house while also managing their import-export, mosaic art, and natural cosmetic businesses, all while raising their family. Their passion and commitment have transformed their home into a living work of art that inspires and delights all who encounter it. The Farnam House has become a beloved landmark in Santa Monica, attracting visitors from near and far. Passersby often stop to admire the intricate designs and vibrant colors, marveling at the sheer scale and artistry of the project. The house has been featured in numerous publications, including the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times, further solidifying its status as a unique and significant cultural attraction. The Farnams welcome visitors to view their mosaic masterpiece, often sharing stories about the creation process and the inspiration behind their designs. Their generosity and willingness to share their art with the world have made the Farnam House a true community treasure. The Farnam House stands as a testament to the power of art to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. It is a celebration of creativity, dedication, and the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places. A visit to the Farnam House is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the hearts and minds of two artists who have poured their passion and vision into creating a truly unique and inspiring work of art. While visiting, consider exploring other nearby attractions. The Bergamot Station Arts Center, a collection of art galleries and studios, is a short distance away. The Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park rides and ocean views, is also easily accessible. For those interested in history, the Santa Monica History Museum offers insights into the city's past. The Farnam House is more than just a mosaic-covered house; it is a symbol of artistic expression, community spirit, and the transformative power of creativity. It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Santa Monica, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and amazed.

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