John Edward Lautner’s Many Contributions Dazzle the Architecture Scene of the Southland.
John Edward Lautner was born in 1911 in Marquette, Michigan into a family who was devotedly interested in art and architecture. His father was a teacher and his mother was an interior designer and painter. From an early age, Lautner was exposed to unique homes which influenced him to become the successful architect that he was. Among his influences was his family’s home “Keepsake” in Marquette, Michigan, which was featured in the magazine The American Architect. The other, more fundamental influence was the “Midgaard”, which was built by and for his family on the shores of Lake Superior. His early inspirations made way for Lautner to have the artistic talent and ability to design over 200 architectural projects.
Among his many projects the one that stood out the most is the Chemosphere which was built in 1960 for Leonard Malin (an aerospace engineer). Since then the home has been transferred from one owner to another, and by the 1990’s was used as a party venue. It is now considered a landmark in West Hollywood, CA. Although the home is about 2000 sqft and has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it is best known for its unusual octagon shape (“flying saucer”) and an amazing panoramic view of Hollywood, CA.
To this day John Edward Lautner is still known for his many contributions to the architectural integrity of Southern California. You can visit his most famous landmark, the “Chemosphere” at 7776 Torreyson Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90046.
Contributor, designer & admin for JohnHart Gazette.
Love the chemosphere, such a cool looking house, looks just like it is from the jetsons!