Preserving Our Heritage: A Tribute to Lost Historic Homes

The neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre have long been celebrated for their rich architectural history, with many homes showcasing iconic early 20th-century styles like Spanish Revival, Mediterranean Revival, and Mid-Century Modern. These homes not only reflected the design trends of their time, but also embodied the spirit and craftsmanship of bygone eras.

Sadly, the recent fires have taken a devastating toll on these historic landmarks, destroying many of these once-pristine structures. The loss is deeply felt, as some of these homes held significant historical value and contributed to the unique character of our communities.

While the full extent of the damage across all affected properties may never be fully documented, some of the most notable losses illustrate the diverse architectural periods that shaped our region. These homes, from elegant Spanish Revival estates to sleek Mid-Century Modern masterpieces, were not merely houses—they were living pieces of our shared history, each telling a story of the past.

As we reflect on the devastation caused by the fires, it is important to remember these homes as integral parts of our collective heritage. While the flames may have taken their physical form, their stories, craftsmanship, and the memories they hold remain a part of us.

Below is a list of some of the most notable losses:

The Robert Bridge House (Top, image by Trevor Tondro/The New York Times) Circa 1991. The Robert Bridges House was designed, built, and occupied by architect Robert Bridges. The Brutalist-style home stood on tall concrete pillars 100 feet above Sunset Blvd.
The Kessler House Neutra placed the garage and children’s rooms on the upper level and the living room on the lower one. A highlight of his design is the easy conversion of the living area into quarters for an overnight guest with a sofa that could be rearranged a double bunk bed according to the Neutra Institute.
1366 E Palm, Altadena (left) Circa 1915. Stunning example of Churrigueresque architecture was more than just a home—it was a piece of living history. Its ornate façade, inspired by the intricate Spanish Baroque style, still stands, but reports confirm that the rest of this architectural gem has been lost, according to @SaveIconicArchitecture
Eric Owens Moss/708 House (Right, image courtesy The Modern House)
Circa 1982. A 600 square foot expansion of a 1948 one story wood frame and stucco Case Study House.
The Andrew McNally House (Image courtesy Susan Pickering/Compass) Circa 1888. A nearly 7,000 square foot Queen Anne. Residence of Andrew McNally (of Rand McNally), this historic home became a symbol of Altadena.
Will Rogers House The interior of this beloved landmark was equally as significant as its exterior, offering a glimpse into the life of one of Hollywood’s most enduring figures.

These homes, each with their own distinct history and design, are irreplaceable symbols of our cultural and architectural heritage.

Julius Shulman photography archive, 1936-1997.