Presenting the Hart Residence, by architects A. Quincy Jones and Whitney R. Smith (1950). An early example of the Mutual Housing Association homes of Crestwood Hills unique not only for its modernist architecture, but also for having been the only successful housing cooperative in the state of California. It was conceived of by four studio musicians returning from WWII, who devised a plan that would pool the resources of multiple owners to develop a community of modern homes. Fewer of the homes were built than originally envisioned, and unfortunately fewer still remain intact. One can thankfully now be added to the list of remaining homes. This was the latest project by HabHouse, which has built its reputation on sensitive rehabilitations of architectural properties. Each one is a labor of love- resurrecting a Los Angeles treasure that would have previously been considered lost to decades of ill-advised remodels and neglect. The distinctive sloping roofline with integral carport has been brought back, as have other attributes that this model and others in tract are known for: Douglas fir plywood built-ins, clear heart redwood tongue and groove siding, and exposed aggregate concrete block. The home was featured prominently in Julius Shulman's 1950 photography of the neighborhood demonstrating how the architects deftly oriented the siting of each house to maximize privacy. With this, extensive walls of glass are able to embrace the surrounding landscape and horizon view. The residence remains an example of idealism forged with modernism and holds a lasting place in Los Angeles history. This is a rare opportunity to become a part of that history and to live in a peaceful, one-of-a-kind setting.
