Ridiculous Drool Worthy Modern Compound Above The Sunset Strip

Rarely does a property of this caliber come on the market, especially in this location. While one can certainly find a home with views, or a pool, and maybe some flat land; it is almost unheard of to have all three on over an acre lot just north of the world famous Sunset Strip. Designed by well known architect Hagy Belzberg behind the gates is this three structure compound. Described by the listing agent as, "To journey beyond the grand gates and soaring pepper tree hedge of this Hagy Belzberg-designed compound estate is to enter a secluded, resort-like sanctuary where three distinct structures – a Main Residence, Wellness Center and Guest House – summon you forward, beckoning you to journey through their space so they can unveil one surprise after another." Sounds inviting doesn't it? As you can imagine in a property of this level, all finishes are of the highest quality throughout. I have kept an eye on this property for the last couple years while driving up Sunset Plaza Dr, and it turned out better then I could have imagined. If you like modern architecture and can play at this level, then this may be the drop dead stunning house you have been waiting for! Remember, once this one goes, it will be almost impossible to duplicate.

1232 Sunset Plaza Dr, Hollywood Hills

$28,800,000 8 Bed 9 Bath 13,000 Sq. Ft/Other 47,916 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of The Agency

If you would like to see this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com. We would be happy to assist!

Large 5 Bedroom House for Lease on the Westside

Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this spacious 5 bedroom, 5 bath house (just finishing the remodel) has granite counters & all new stainless steel appliances in the beautiful kitchen. The large dining area surrounded in walls of glass leads to the outdoor patio. The living room includes a stunning stacked stone mid-century fireplace and sliding glass door leading to the patio surrounded with lush landscaping and overlooking the Los Angeles River. There is a small yard on the west end of the house. The master bedroom and two additional large bedrooms are upstairs on the east side of the house. One additional bedroom is downstairs adjacent to the living room with an en suite newly redone bathroom. The 5th bedroom on the west side of the house is a mother-in-law suite with its own private entry, laundry room with washer/dryer hookups and bathroom. Small pets will be accepted w/ additional deposit. Parking for 3 cars max. Centrally located near the 405 & 10 freeways,Santa Monica Airport, UCLA, SMC, Santa Monica, & Venice Beach.

3240 Tilden Ave, West Los Angeles

4,950/mo Unfurnished 5 Bed 4 Bath 3,026 Sq. Ft 9,501 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos (except 1st one) by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

This is a large property oozing with character and style, in a nice Westside location. If you would like to see this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Amazing Montecito Glass Pavilion Designer Tour - Instant Classic

I posted this stunning one of a kind property way back in June of 2010. It was built by one of my favorite LA home designers and uber high end flippers, Steven Hermann. Mr. Hermann quite simply has skills, and has sold homes for record prices to celebrities and CEO's alike. In fact his last sale was this amazing Trousdale Estate area mid-century modern sold to none other then celebrity designer Vera Wang for $9,200,000. You can see Ms. Wang in her new west coast abode in this spread in Harpers Bazaar. Back to perhaps his best creation yet, the Glass Pavilion on a 4 acre spread in Montecito. At that time I originally posted the 14,000 sq. ft property, it was being floated around privately off the market for a whopping $35M. I think Mr. Hermann and his family are living there and would gladly sell for a huge number, but were just enjoying the property in the interim. I was flipping around the TV this weekend and came across a walk through tour by the designer himself (posted below). It seems they are more serious about selling the property and are now offering it at a more "reasonable" (cough) $19,995,000. Mr. Hermann explains in the video that he is a huge fan of modernism architecture and designed the home as a modern update to the Farnshworth House by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in the mid 1940's. If you have this kind of money, I could not think of a better home to purchase though, as this one is an instant classic!

You can see a ton of pictures here, but you can get a real sense of the designer's thought process and some of the finishes used and why in this walk through tour.

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Video courtesy of LX TV Open House on NBC

This is one of the finest pieces of modern architecture I have seen, and would be quite a trophy property for the lucky buyer. If you would like to visit this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email eric@smilayproperties.com.

Angus St. Modern Architectural; Silver Lake

A completely redone home into what is now a modern architectural in the hills of Silver Lake. Lying in the coveted Ivanhoe School District, is this great looking open floorplan with a ton of windows, large decks with views, and a large yard. The backyard is currently left undone, but there is certainly room for a pool or a great garden. The house itself has interesting looking "smoked white oak floors" throughout the property. Really nice finishes throughout include, updated spa like baths and a stunning kitchen with caeserstone counters, and "custom bamboo cabinets." The property has been wired with "smart" technology throughout the home allowing easy control over it's features for the new owner. According to the listing, there is also "Bonus studio/sound room with separate entry," which could be a great plus for the right buyer. In a great eastside location with views of the hills and the Griffith Park Observatory, close to the reservoir, this one looks good and should attract a significant amount of interest.

3007 Angus St, Silver Lake

$1,289,000 3 Bed 4 Bath 2,400 Sq. Ft 7,666 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Luisa Ferrante - Sotheby's Int'l Rlty-Los Feliz

I would recommend not delaying on this one. If you would like to visit this property in person, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email eric@smilayproperties.com.

Renovating the La Brea Shopping District

The area between 1st and 3rd street on La Brea was already very cool in my eyes, as on the east side of the street it housed many great LA shopping haunts. These include famed clothing stores like American Rag, Stussy, and cool sneaker spot Undefeated. There is also high end furniture store Vioski, which houses the very cool Palms Chair and Ottoman (you can see it shot after the break through the glass, which produces a cool effect). Lastly, but certainly not least, is the French style cafe of Cafe Midi, one of my personal favorite spots to have lunch.

Now it seems the people at Madison Marquette are renovating the west side of the street. By looking at the renderings and the history of the buildings on their website, this side is sure to impress. The architecture of the building's houses a great shell for the build out of new and cool retail stores, and further restaurants to add to the area's appeal. The site of an Edsel Automobile dealership in the 1950’s, the building was later headquarters to one of LA’s premier printing shops, Continental Graphics Corporation. Now the architects at Studio One Eleven are highlighting each building’s unique characteristics including wood truss ceilings, exposed brick and steel beams to great fantastic retail spaces. A couple spaces have already been leased, and are looking great. I look forward to following the progress and visiting the great spaces once the renovation is complete.

Pictures by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

Bird Street Modern Architectural With Rare Tennis Court; Hollywood Hills

Newly built in 2010 is this modern architectural home with top tier finishes throughout in the famous "Bird Streets," arguably the most coveted location of the Hollywood Hills. In addition to the sensational views, this private gated compound features an extremely rare tennis court in addition to it's pool. The stunning estate is very large at 7,500 sq. ft, has a separate detached guest house, gym with locker room, and a theater room. I have visited this property previously and it is quite simply the best of everything in the best location.

9240 Warbler Way, Hollywood Hills

$7,995,000 5 Bed 6 Bath 7,500 Sq. Ft 24,705 Sq. Ft Lot

For a more detailed tour of this property click here

Listing and Photos courtesy of Michael Eisenberg - Keller Williams Realty Beverly Hills

If you are looking for a modern architectural showplace in the best location of the Hollywood Hills, this is it. With a large flat over 1/2 acre property in a highly desirable location, this one is not to be missed. If you would like to see this stunning modern architectural home please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Small But Sleek Echo Park Architectural Hits the Market

Echo Park Architect Simon Storey purchased this small home in Echo Park in 2007, and after a complete remodel and addition, this home is now back on the market. The original purchase shows this small home at just 330 sq. ft! It has been totally redone into a larger, albeit still small, 2 bed/1 bath 924 sq. ft modern architectural. A great example of efficiency and urban living with a rooftop deck and nice views in this loft like structure. Within walking distance to Elysian Park, and all the new shops and restaurants of Echo Park, this dynamic modern home represents a great condo alternative at an affordable price.

See the transformation with a picture of the front of the original house before the architect did the work after the break.

1416 Fairbanks Place, Echo Park

$559,000 2 Bed 1 Bath 924 Sq. Ft / per owner 780 Lot Sq. Ft.

Front of the house before

Front of the house after Listing & Photos courtesy of Ken Shapiro and Alicia Lawhon - Silverwood Properties & Keller Williams Realty

If you would like to see this newly redone architectural home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Private Gated Mid-Century Modern Hollywood Hills Home w/ Great Video

Check out this new listing to hit the market in the Hollywood Hills. The gated home was recently remodeled with polished concrete flooring, updated baths, a gourmet kitchen, and a nice water feature in the entryway. I am a big fan of concrete flooring, as it looks sleek and is easy to maintain, especially if it comes with radiant heat, which this one does. The open floor plan with large floor to ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the property and create a great indoor/outdoor flow. There are three good sized bedrooms and three full bathrooms. The outdoor space is a great place to relax on the weekends or entertain your friend's and family. A good location within minutes of the heart of all that new Hollywood has to offer.

Make sure to check out the marketing video after the break. I have to give the listing agent his just due on this one, as it is nicely done, and gives a sense of the "lifestyle" one could have, should they want it, if they lived there. Well done Sir.

6816 Pacific View Dr, Hollywood Hills

$969,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 1,732 Sq. Ft. 5,000 Lot Sq. Ft.

Listing & Photos/Video courtesy of Eric Lavey - Keller Williams Realty BH

This is another nicely remodeled mid-century home in the Hills that is sure to draw a lot of attention. If you would like to see this stylish home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Futuristic Newly Built Modern Architectural

Take a look at this futuristic modern home just built and listed for sale on famed Mulholland Dr. in the Hollywood Hills. Positioned on a knoll and designed like a space ship ready to take off into the view. Designed by Michael Rostami of Unicon Builders, this home is stunning combination of disappearing walls of glass, steel, and concrete. The views are out of this world, as one looks over all of Los Angeles from the perch of this fine home. The living room with fireplace flows out to the 33 foot infinity pool, and when the glass is removed, the lines become blurred between indoors and outdoors for that true California living experience. High end everything with only the sleekest finishes used. The master suite is enormous and is positioned over the city with an ultra-hip bathroom and a roof top deck. There is also a 1,100 sq ft permitted guest house or office with full bathroom. The listing describes this home as, "The ultimate trophy compound & work of art." They may be right.

7691 Mulholland Dr, Hollywood Hills

$6,750,000 5 Bed 6 Bath 6,000 Sq. Ft./ow 17,859 Lot Sq. Ft/ow

Listing & Photos courtesy of Joshua & Matthew Altman - Hilton & Hyland

This is a rare home that is tough to duplicate, and in short, may be special. If you would like to see this futuristic modern home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

The Gogol House, 1939 by Raphael Soriano in Los Feliz

The listing agent does a very good job of describing the house and it's historical relevance, so rather then just piecing it together, I have enclosed the MLS description in full for your review.

"The Gogol House, 1939. Designed by Raphael Soriano in the International Modern Style, has been called "the purest example of Soriano's early work" and "pivotal to the evolution of the modern California house". 3 bed/3ba is thoughtfully arranged throughout three floors. Main floor 2 bed/2ba, kitchen, living-dining area with glass facade leading to a large deck with southern exposure and city views. Top floor loft/office opens to a rooftop terrace. Lower level is comprised of guest bed/bath, media/music room, laundry and storage room. Detached 2 car garage and rear garden. A rare opportunity to own an important residence by an iconic, mid-century modern architect."

2190 Talmadge St, Los Feliz

$1,195,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,779 Sq. Ft 5,619 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Crystal Heatherly - Deasy Penner & Partners

This home is in the highly desirable Franklin Hills area of Los Feliz, just a few blocks from the goods and services of the Los Feliz Village. This represents a good opportunity to own a historical "work of art," created by a noteworthy architect. If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com. I am sure that this home will attract a lot of interest given it's location and pedigree, so don't delay if you think it may be the one for you.

Love This Clean White 1961 House in Bel-Air

I don't necessarily love all the furniture, but the house is nothing short of amazing. Originally designed by famed architect Richard Dorman, AIA, in 1961, this mid-century home has been updated for any modernist buyer's tastes. The floor plan is wide open with free flowing connectivity of rooms, all based in stunning terrazzo flooring, and surrounded by walls of glass leading out to the stunning pool. The master bedroom has been transformed with a luxurious spa like bathroom, and huge walk in closet. The home is located on prestigious Stone Canyon in Bel-Air and has relaxing views of the Stone Canyon Reservoir. On the market in 2009 for as high as $4,200,000, the listing sums up the current offering nicely by saying, "Finally, an exceptional example of modernist architecture at a realistic price."

1711 Stone Canyon Rd, Bel-Air

$2,895,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 2,970 Sq. Ft 13,020 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Billy Rose & Christopher Miller - Prudential CA - Beverly Hills

Of course the home has been updated with modern finishes, but the amazing thing to me when you think about it is that this home was designed and built in 1961, and yet it remains just as beautiful and stunning a home today as it was back then. This is my favorite type of architecture, and represents a great opportunity for a buyer who appreciates a similar aesthetic. If you would like to see this fine home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Love This Soho Loft; NYC

Anyone that follows this blog knows I am a huge fan of lofts. It is the soaring ceilings, walls of glass, and just wide open space that really does it for me. I don't operate in the Manhattan real estate market, but definitely love the aesthetics of modern lofts in old pre-war buildings. The right mix of modern and vintage character is just special. I saw this one on NY Curbed, and think it looks amazing. So cool in fact that I had to share it with you guys. There are starting to be a few more of these in Los Angeles, especially as Downtown Los Angeles continues to be redeveloped, but doubt many can touch this Soho loft. Curbed describes it as, "It's a 4,500-square-foot 4BR with 15' ceilings and eight cast iron columns." If you are wondering, this third floor loft at 84 Mercer in Soho, will run you a cool $7,000,000.

Listing & Photos Courtesy of Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate (some pictures via Curbed NY)

Modern Architectural in Iran

This newly built architectural home comes to us via My Modern Met. It is a stunning example of modern architecture in a most unlikely place. I do not think of Iran when it comes to places known for modern architecture, although this one surely is a beauty. Located in Mohammad Shahr region, near Karaj city, Villa Kiani is set in the middle of a lush green garden. "Architects Makan Rahmanian and Kamran Heirati purposely designed the Villa’s interior space this way so that it became an extension of the landscape. With high ceilings and large glass walls, the house is spaced out perfectly and provides great views of the garden." I have not visited the home, but the concept looks to be well conceived and executed masterfully. Bravo.

Another Masterpiece By My Favorite LA Home Designer

Having posted previous homes showcasing this designer's great work, here comes another masterpiece to the market by Steve Hermann Design. Mr. Hermann has sold numerous creations of his for record prices in both the Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills to celebrities and CEO's alike, and this is his latest design. According to the listing (Mr. Hermann is also an agent who represents himself on his sales), "A 3-year build has produced a defining structure that sets a new bar in quality, amenities, and emotional experience." Boasting explosive views of the city below, the property is almost entirely glass allowing the outside in. While indoors, the 12' ceilings add incredible volume to the wide open floor plan. As usual, the finishes are second to none with name brands such as Boffi, Poliform, Vantage, and Biticino switches. It is one thing to play at this level, but it is another to create a work of art; Mr. Hermann clearly does the latter each and every time.

610 Cole Pl, Beverly Hills

$10,900,000 4 Bed 4 Bath 4,394 Sq. Ft 20,580 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Steven Hermann - Westside Estates Agency

This property is beyond perfect if you are a fan of mid-century modern design, high end finishes, and want to be in Beverly Hills with explosive views. Who isn't? If you would like to see this work of art by a very noteworthy designer, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com. This one is "special."

Modern Architectural Living in Echo Park

Lying in Echo Park just across the street from Echo Park Lake are two new modern architectural homes. This area has surely come a long way, and continues to grow and lure young professionals with modern projects like this. These two architectural properties represent a great condo alternative with designer finishes throughout; including bamboo wood flooring, grohe fixturing in the baths, caeser stone counters in the kitchen, and an ideal open floor plan. With three bedrooms and two and a half baths, this home is a good size for a young couple or family. While not a ton of outdoor space, there are a couple nice patios to sit out on. With the location of the homes set high up and back away from the street, one is afforded nice views looking out onto Sunset Blvd.

1124 Echo Park Ave, Echo Park

$679,000 3 Bed 2.5 Bath 1,600 Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos courtesy of Christopher Furstenberg - Furstenberg Realty

If you want to live on the east side and are a fan of modern architecture, this could be exactly what you have been looking for. If interested in seeing this unique condo alternative in person please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

The Most Unique Buildings In The World

National Theatre (Beijing , China)

These are not necessarily the best buildings in the world, but without question they are unique.

Guggenheim Museum ( Bilbao , Spain ) Atlantis ( Dubai , UAE)

Atomium ( Brussels , Belgium )

The Basket Building ( Ohio , USA )

Ca the dral of Brasilia ( Brazil )

Casa da musica (Porto, Portugal)

The Church of Hallgrimur ( Reykjavik, Iceland)

Conch Shell House ( Isla Mujeres , Mexico )

The Crooked House ( Sopot , Poland )

Cubic Houses ( Rotterdam , Netherlands )

Forest Spiral ( Darmstadt , Germany )

Habitat 67 (Montreal, Canada)

House Attack ( Viena , Austria )

Ideal Palace ( France )

Kansas City Library ( Missouri , USA )

Kunsthaus ( Graz , Austria )

La Pedra ( Barcelona , Spain )

Lotus Temple ( Delhi , India )

Low impact woodland house ( Wales , UK )

Mind House ( Barcelona , Spain )

Montreal Biosphere ( Canada )

Museum of Contemporary Art ( Niteroi , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil )

The Museum of Play ( Rochester , USA )

The National Library ( Minsk , Belarus )

Nautilus House ( Mexico City , Mexico )

Olympic Stadium ( Montreal , Canada )

Stone House ( Guimarães , Portugal )

Wonderworks (Pigeon Forge , TN , USA )

Wooden Gagster House ( Archangelsk , Russia )

Rotating Tower ( Dubai, UAE)

Super Chic Architectural Home on Venice Canals

Lying on the coveted Venice Canals, is this stunning architectural home. The property was built in 1988, but recently renovated by David Hertz with the finest materials. Great use of two story living room and walls of glass for natural light combined with clean white walls for hanging artwork. The open floor plan is ideal with the chef's kitchen opening up to the living room and dining area. With hip concrete flooring throughout, designer baths for each room, and a serene master suite, this is modern architecture at it's finest.

2335 Eastern Canal, Venice

$2,895,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 3,296 Sq. Ft 2,696 Lot Sq. Ft

Listing & Photos Courtesy of Tamra (Tami) Pardee - Pardee Properties, Inc.

This is simply an exquisitely executed architectural home in a prime Venice Canal location. If you wish to see this property, please feel free to contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Hip Lofts From Around the Globe

If you like lofts, check out our newest designer done loft listing in a prime Hollywood location.

Soho Loft Courtesy of The Love Magazine Blog

Anybody who follows this blog knows I am a fan of Lofts. I love the open floor plan and soaring ceilings, the natural light, and architecture. The best is the juxtaposition of modern finishes with historic character buildings in desirable urban locations. I felt like posting several I found throughout mostly the United States and a few outside of the country. Maybe you can gather some design or architecture ideas for your loft/condo/or even house to incorporate into enhancing your space in 2011. Here's to a great year of Well Being & Architecture. Happy New Year everyone!

Biscuit Company Lofts-Los Angeles Courtesy of Archrecord

New York Loft Courtesy of Flickr

Modern London Loft Courtesy of Loftroom

Mosler Lofts-Seattle Courtesy of DigsDigs

Arizona Lofts Courtesy of Acid Rain

American Brewery Lofts - Boston Courtesy of WarrenRE

Postrel Lofts Courtesy of The Atlantic

Boston Loft Courtesy of Condo Domain

Hard Loft-Toronto Courtesy of Urbanapolis

I just put this Architectural loft like home on the West side in escrow, and recently leased this designer loft at the famed Broadway Lofts in the heart of Hollywood, and I know of some great ones in varying locations at varying prices for sale or lease all around LA currently available. If you would like to find a loft in the greater Los Angeles area, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Lake Hollywood Architectural Masterpiece

Spectacular work of art hovering over majestic Lake Hollywood high in the Hollywood Hills. A Distinctive Homes Magazine cover home, and featured On NBC’s “Open House,” this architectural masterpiece was constructed in 2006. The details are astounding, with floating staircases, removable walls of glass, soaring ceilings, and top notch finishes throughout one would expect in a home of this level. The calming views of Lake Hollywood further enhance the experience.

3001 Arrowhead Dr, Hollywood Hills

$12,000,000 5 Bed 8 Bath 9,385 Sq. Ft 24,730 Lot Sq. Ft

To see more of this fine property click Here

Pictures and Listing Courtesy of David Findley - Partners Trust

The pictures say more then any words could. The place is a masterpiece. If interested in seeing this one of a kind architectural, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.