One of the world’s most famous mid-century modern architects, the University of Southern California’s distinguished professor, Pierre Koenig, got his bachelors from USC’s School of Architecture and went on to teach at the venerable institution for forty years. A prolific lecturer and the recipient of more than twenty awards, Koenig was known for his contemporary designs. Reflecting the optimism of the atomic age, the Mid-Century Modernist school of architecture featured clean lines, geometric shapes, and functional materials emphasizing steel, glass, and concrete. When Art and Architecture magazine sponsored its Case Study Houses, experiments in residential architecture, Koenig was chosen to design two of them. His Case Study House #22, also known as the Stahl House, is widely considered the iconic Los Angeles modern. Made famous by a striking 1960 photo by Julius Shulman of the glass-walled home suspended over the LA city lights, the home has been the set of numerous films and music videos and has been referenced by both The Simpsons and the Grand Theft Auto video game series.
Koenig’s final project was an exquisite oceanfront home along the Malibu coast. Known as the “Koenig Beach House,” the striking modern has been listed for sale at $17.85 million. The 3,600-square-foot home reflects the quintessential modern aesthetic, with the same stark lines and floor-to-ceiling glass that make the Stahl House so memorable. The glass walls provide every room with breathtaking views from Broad Beach to Point Dume and let in tons of natural light. Creamy walls with chrome and blonde wood accents contribute to the crisp, minimalist look, while sliding glass doors offer seamless indoor/outdoor living. A steel central staircase connects the floors in style.
The three-story, four-bed, four-bath home is only a few feet from the Pacific shore. Multiple steel-and-glass decks offer plenty of options for entertaining, including an oversized spa where guests can relax while looking out at the waves, as well as a retractable staircase leading down to the sand. The charming kitchen features an island with bar seating and the living room includes a fireplace. A gym, home theatre, and garage with a car lift complete the luxury estate. Designed to be eco-friendly, the home is solar powered and features the Control 4 smart home system. Cyprus and palm trees surround the home, offering privacy and serenity. Should the residents tire of pristine beaches, nearby options for entertainment include the famous Paradise Cove Beach Cafe and the Malibu Riding and Tennis Club.
Malibu is, as it says on the signs, “21 miles of scenic beauty” along the coast of California just west of Los Angeles. Formerly a sleepy beach town whose residents rode horses along the curbless streets, it has seen the development of spectacular mansions and upscale shops in recent years. Offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city but close enough to commute, Malibu is extremely popular with celebrities. Just a few of its notable residents who have or had homes in Malibu include Leonardo DiCaprio, Miley Cyrus, Jack Nicholson, Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, and Cher.
The listing is held by Sandro Dazzan of The Agency
Photos Courtesy: The Agency
Photos By: Simon Berlyn
Source: sandrodazzan.com
