Extraordinary Mid-Century Modern on the Silver Lake Reservoir – 2305 W Silver Lake

“The flowering of California architecture is a combination of free minds, love of nature, and an unspoiled countryside.” – Harwell Hamilton Harris, 1948

Welcome to The H.E. Hansen House built in 1951 by modernist architect Harwell Hamilton Harris, a rare and significant example of his mid-century modern period. The home enjoys the thoughtful union of nature, color and warmth. It’s one of the most architecturally important homes in Silver Lake with unobstructed views of the Silver Lake reservoir.

2305 W Silver Lake Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Open House: Sunday, March 17 2pm – 5pm
Asking Price:$1,599,000
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1
Square Feet: 1,440 sf.
Lot Size: 5,171 sf.
Year Built: 1951

Born in Redlands, California in 1903, Harwell Hamilton Harris created a sigular Southern California architectural style that carefully modulated interior and exterior space. Originally, his ambition was to be a sculptor but after visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, Harris had an epiphany to study architecture instead of art. In 1928, he began working with architect Richard Neutra with whom he was associated until 1932. Adopting Neutra’s modernist sensibility, Harris merged the vernacular of California with a sensitivity to site and materials characteristic of the American Arts & Crafts movement. Learning from Frank Lloyd Wright, he designed interior spaces that are often based on the cruciform plan. His work is assimilated European and American influences and is characterized by a careful use of materials and clean, fluid spaces.

2305 W Silver Lake Drive presents a rare opportunity to own one of Harris’s organic masterpieces. On the market for the first time in 27 years, the two-bedroom residence has been impressively well-preserved.

The main living room boasts a brick fireplace, clerestory windows, hardwood floors, and original built-ins throughout including a living room couch with hidden storage.

The living room opens onto the back patio extending the living area to meet the outdoors, one of Harris’s signatures.

The kitchen has incredible reservoir views, custom cabinetry, and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances.

An office area adjacent to kitchen enjoys a built-in desk.

The home was designed by Harris to take advantage of the natural serenity of the hillside landscape by bringing the outdoors in through wall-to-wall and nearly floor-to-ceiling doors and windows.

Because of the sensitive use of materials, colors, and the skillful integration of building to site, the master suite is a peaceful and one-of-a-kind retreat.

The second bedroom also enjoys the verdant patio views.

And for bibliophiles, the row of built-in bookcases is a dream come true.

The streamlined bath has vintage appeal and provided plenty of light through two windows delicately placed near the ceiling for privacy.

The home features two patios that welcome the outdoors: one located off the dining room inviting sweeping reservoir views.

Whether entertaining or lounging, the patio is a brilliant use of space and is set perched above Silver Lake Drive.

The second patio is enclosed and private and located off the master bedroom. It incorporates a water feature, lush gardens, and a meandering path.

Harris’ organic, regional architecture was rooted in the climate of his native California and softened the modern aesthetic with wood more than steel. Harris received numerous awards, including the Richard Neutra Medal for Professional Excellence in 1982.

2035 West Silver Lake is a master class in mid-century Southern California indoor/outdoor design. A true original and an extraordinarily inviting home.

I will be holding this stunning home’s open house this Sunday, March 17 from 2 to 5pm. I hope you’ll join me!

If you would like to view 2035 W Silver Lake Drive, or view other homes for sale in the Hollywood Hills, call me at (323) 697-3040 or email me at jacqueline.tager@sothebyshomes.com.

Listing provided courtesy of Alicia Lawhon, Sotheby’s International Realty.

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