Designed by: Claude Oakland
Location: Granada Hills, California
Size: 2,159 square feet
We don't watch a lot of TV (mostly because we don't have cable or even over the air reception), but we do admit to being big fans of Mad Men...as much for the set design as the excellent acting (and Joan Holloway's outfits)...
So we did a "well, hellllooo there!" when we came upon this renovated Granada Hills Joseph Eichler (designed by Claude Oakland) that just about screams out its Sterling Cooper worthy status.
Mint Joseph Eichler Icon! Classic modern architecture, 1963. A clean-lined masonry facade sweeps serenely across the wide ridge site affording protection & privacy to the occupants & beauty born of artistic minimalism to the passerby. Sheltered from the street, inside all is bright, open & free of confinement. The entry garden atrium subtly dissolves indoor-outdoor distinctions, an effect enhanced by the glass walled interiors opening to generous patios, and the garden. The residence includes: built-ins, modern appliances, upgraded interiors in keeping with the style, and extensive landscaping.
And if you like this dandy of a mid-century home, be sure to check out some of our past tours right around the corner from this residence, alongside this interesting article about Eichler's star architect, Claude Oakland:
Can we put a moratorium on anything referred to as "Mad Men" era? This is a design blog with pretty good cred... can't you just save the mainstream bandwagon descriptions for say... People Magazine? I think pretty much most of the people here know what an Eichler is. That's all you had to say.
Sorry to be mean about it, but it has been driving me up the wall the last couple of years seeing every form of media trying to tie-into or cash-in-on "Mad Men". I expect better here.
view ridge_van_winkle's profile
Not a fan of Mad Men but LOVE this Eichler home.
I could live here.
Katy
http://fengshuibyfishgirl.com
view fishgirl's profile
ridge_van_winkle: Actually plenty of people do not know who Joseph Eichler was, let alone his Claude Oakland. Referencing pop culture can be the gateway for people who are new to design, decor, architecture...you'd be surprised how many of our readers enjoy design in a manner different from you describe. And if it takes referencing a popular show (one that I did indeed naturally think of when I saw these images) to introduce people to some architectural history, I'm willing to do so. I know plenty of native Angelenos who don't know the name Eichler at all, even those growing up right smack dab in Granada Hills, so I wouldn't assume so much.
view gregory's profile
I agree with Ridge. As someone born during that time, it sort of bothers me to have my whole generation reduced to a single TV show's interpretation of it.
I think even mentioning the date the house was built would place it in the right context. Why not just "A 1963 Granada Hills Eichler..."? That would both pin down the historical period AND give people a little architectural education at the same time.
view sally305's profile
In that last shot of the hallway/patio, I love how the flooring "extends" outdoors with the stone. Brilliant!
view farmhousemoderne's profile
Even though I like a mix of some mid century style, and I wouldn't design my whole house in it, this house is beautiful and perfectly mid century designed. Almost like a little time capsule.
view Aster's profile
I live in the area and this has been one of my favorites but I think it's a tiny bit overpriced for what the other recent Eichlers have sold for. Regardless, the owners have done a tremendous job with it.
view Gigi818's profile
The pictures alone drew me into the post :)
view Lizzykewl's profile
Everyone needs a compass point. If Mad Men is the one for now, so be it.
view dkzody's profile
What is Mad Men?
Ok really this is a nice remodel I have seen beautiful Mid Century destroyed like you want to ask them what part of the original architecture did you not get?
There are so many jewels in LA and the surrounding areas.
When I lived in LA you could pick up a Modern like this whether it was Eichler or Quincy Jones in the valley for under 400,000.00. While the ones in Brentwood (Crestwood Hills) and in LA were twice as high and now they are all triple.
Its unfortunate the wealthier neighborhoods many were torn down and replaced with faux Colonial or just a big house.
view LoriSF's profile
I agree with dkzody.
For me what matters is it good or bad design - is it visually appealing and is it functional. References to Madison Avenue aside...
Yes to all on this Eichler/Oakland/Granada Hills residence - it is lovely to behold.
view ah2Bthee's profile
Awesome. A few places, to me, need just one more thing to warm it up a little... make it just a tad more livable. Like the dining room with the long wood wall... purrhaps a very low (14"-15") and long sideboard with just a couple items on it. Maybe one in red to give the room something of a contrast piece. Just looks a little lifeless to me. I wouldn't want to hang out there at all. Also, two smaller paintings instead of that one. Opens up more wood and adds a little perceived length. I dunno...lol
view Laughing Tiger's profile
That last indoor/outdoor pic is dreamy! Wow...
view Laughing Tiger's profile
I always get a little nostalgic when I see an Eichler home. I was fortunate enought to grow up in one. I still remember roller skating in the atrium in winter! Fabulous design and family friendly. Love it (miss it!)!
view La Vésigondine's profile
my dream is to own an eichler =)
view JenJen's profile