Introduction to the Stahl House
An iconic symbol of mid-century Hollywood glamor is on sale for the first time in history. The Stahl House, a two-bedroom residence that features sweeping views of Los Angeles, has been listed for $25 million. The Pierre Koenig-designed masterpiece of modernism, built with glass and steel on the edge of a Hollywood Hills cliff, cost its owners just a little over $50,000 to buy and build back in the 1950s.
History of the Stahl House
The Stahl House was constructed as part of an architectural experiment in the 1950s. The home spans 2,300 square feet and includes two bedrooms. William Baker, the architecture director of The Agency, represents the listing. Within hours of the home hitting the market, Baker received hundreds of inquiries, per the Los Angeles Times, proving the astronomical pricetag won’t prohibit history and architecture enthusiasts.
The Construction and Design
Back in 1954, Buck and Carlotta Stahl acquired the small, sloping lot in the Hollywood Hills for $13,500. The story goes that Koenig was the only architect who would take the Stahls up on their modernist vision for the tricky landscape. The resulting cantilevered L-shaped structure, which was completed in 1959 at a cost of $37,500, is an eye-catching blend of steel and glass. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Sunset Boulevard and beyond. Its dynamic layout across 2,300 square feet separates living and private spaces with a bridged outdoor pool.
Features of the Stahl House
The kitchen features a plaque, honoring the home’s place in the Case Study Program. The pool area separates the bedrooms from the entertaining areas. The freestanding fireplace between the kitchen and living room is pictured. A view of Los Angeles from the living area. The siblings described waking up and donning life jackets over their pajamas in order to cross the pool area to the kitchen. When they were old enough, Bruce taught his children how to jump from the overhanging roof into the pool.
The Case Study Program
For architecture enthusiasts, the Stahl House is a treasured example of the Case Study Program. The program, sponsored by Arts & Architecture Magazine between 1945 to 1977, encouraged architects to build mass-produceable homes from basic materials — a necessity during the post-war baby boom. The Stahl House became “Case Study House No. 22.” A total of 25 Case Study homes were constructed, and the surviving homes are considered shining examples of the midcentury style.
Pop Culture Appearances
This Julius Shulman photo was once called “perhaps the most famous picture ever taken in Los Angeles.” The same iconic corner today. A black-and-white film photoshoot by Julius Shulman catapulted the Stahl House into the limelight soon after its construction. In what Los Angeles Magazine once called “perhaps the most famous picture ever taken in Los Angeles,” two models appear in a glass-lined corner of the house, enjoying the evening as the city shines through the glass. The home went on to appear in Hollywood productions, including the pilot episode of “Columbo” and the 1999 parody film “Galaxy Quest.” It was even pixelated in the 2004 video game “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas,” in which it served as a purchasable safe house for players.
The Stahl Family and the Sale
Through the decades, however, the Stahl House was first and foremost a family home. The Stahl family announced the sale on their website with a heartfelt message. “This home has been the center of our lives for decades, but as we’ve gotten older, it has become increasingly challenging to care for it with the attention and energy it so richly deserves,” the announcement said. The Stahls family will continue to offer tours of the home in the meantime, according to their website, although they’re currently booked out into February. The ticketed tours began 17 years ago in order to help cover maintenance costs, the LA Times reported. Baker told the outlet that the sellers are open to a private or institutional buyer. The longtime stewards want “someone who’s going to understand it, honor the house and the story about it,” Baker said.
Conclusion
The Stahl House is an iconic piece of mid-century modern architecture and a significant part of Hollywood’s history. Its unique design, stunning views, and rich history make it a truly special property. With its listing price of $25 million, it will be interesting to see who the new owner will be and how they will choose to preserve and maintain this incredible home.
FAQs
- Q: How much is the Stahl House listed for?
A: The Stahl House is listed for $25 million. - Q: How many bedrooms does the Stahl House have?
A: The Stahl House has two bedrooms. - Q: Who designed the Stahl House?
A: The Stahl House was designed by Pierre Koenig. - Q: What is the Case Study Program?
A: The Case Study Program was a program sponsored by Arts & Architecture Magazine that encouraged architects to build mass-produceable homes from basic materials. - Q: Can I tour the Stahl House?
A: Yes, the Stahl family offers tours of the home, but they are currently booked out into February.
