Samuel-Novarro House is one of the most original architectural developments in California. Designed in 1928 by Lloyd Wright, son of the famous Frank Lloyd Wright, the house exemplifies a style inspired by Mayan art and architecture that is distinguished by geometric forms, rich textures and an almost temple-like monumentality. The building is located in the prestigious Hollywood Hills district of Los Angeles, and its history and design make it considered an architectural monument and one of the most interesting landmarks in California.
The house was designed for Louis Samuel, a Hollywood executive, and his wife. Initially, it was intended to be a private retreat that would offer both functionality, luxury and an environment of nature. Over time, the building became not only a private residence, but also a cultural icon of Los Angeles, gaining landmark status (Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument No. 130). The façade of the house reflects the inspiration of Mayan architecture, especially their monumental temples. This style was popular in the 1920s and 1930s throughout the Americas. It is characterised by repeating geometric motifs and vertical and horizontal lines that give the structure a dynamic visual rhythm.
Photo by Stilfehler, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The 250 sq m house has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Concrete, as the main building material, gives it solidity and durability, while allowing the geometric forms to be reproduced with precision. The stepped terraces, reminiscent of pyramids, lend monumentality to the volume, while large rectangular windows, often framed in wood or bronze, bring natural light into the interior, breaking up the austerity of the materials.

The interior of the house is designed in an art déco style, with an eye for harmony with the surroundings. The open plan allows for seamless movement between rooms, while high ceilings and large windows enhance the feeling of spaciousness. The focal point of the interior is the living room, where minimalist furniture emphasises the importance of space and natural materials.

The interior finishes reflect Wright’s organic philosophy: polished concrete floors, wooden beams and subtle metal accents create an eye-friendly atmosphere. As a result, the interior of the house, despite its modernist simplicity, exudes warmth and harmony. The house’s unusual architecture and atmosphere have led many Hollywood stars to live there over the years, including actresses Diane Keaton and Christina Ricci.

Samuel-Novarro House is not only a residence, but also a symbol of the artistic revolution of 1920s Los Angeles. It combines a modernist approach to architecture with a fascination with exotic cultures, making it both a work of art and a historical monument.
Source: theeastsideagent.com, laconservancy.org
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