The Sturges Home, a historic Los Angeles residence designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is facing a dire fate. This architectural masterpiece, a testament to Wright's Usonian style, is now a symbol of neglect and decay. The house, located at 449 North Skyewiay Road in Brentwood Heights, has been abandoned for years, allowing it to deteriorate into a haven for wild animals. This situation highlights the issue of 'demolition by neglect', where historical properties are allowed to fall into disrepair due to a lack of maintenance.
The Los Angeles Conservancy has expressed concern over the house's condition, noting the decay of the original redwood and the warping of the carport's distinctive pillars. Neighbors have reported sightings of wild animals inside the home, further emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The Sturges Home, once a landmark of the city's architectural history, is now at risk of being lost forever.
Designed during the economic hardships of the Great Depression, Wright's Usonian homes were intended to provide affordable and efficient living for middle-class families. The Sturges Home, a 1,200-square-foot residence, features a living-dining room, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen. It also boasts a 21-foot deck that extends over the canyon, offering a unique architectural feature.
The original owners, George and Selma Sturges, were inspired by Wright's work in a January 1938 issue of 'Architectural Forum'. They commissioned Wright to design their home, which was completed the following year. After the couple sold the house in 1951, it changed hands several times before being purchased by actor Jack Larson and film director James Bridges in 1967. Larson lived in the home until his death in 2015, and it is now owned by the All Right Now Foundation, a non-profit organization.
The deterioration of the Sturges Home has sparked concern among preservationists and neighbors alike. The house's neglect raises questions about the responsibility of property owners and the importance of maintaining historical landmarks. As the home continues to decay, the question remains: will it be saved, or will it succumb to the forces of neglect and become a forgotten piece of architectural history?
