The Only Surviving Craig Ellwood Case Study House Asks $2.9M
One of Craig Ellwood’s architectural masterpieces is now on the market. Completed in 1953, the single-story, flat-roofed home was the first of three contributions Ellwood made to Arts & Architecture magazine’s Case Study House Program. Today, the two-bedroom abode is the only surviving member of the trio, as the other two homes were since heavily remodeled.
The home’s front facade is wrapped with translucent glass panels.
Located at 1811 Bel Air Road, Case Study House #16 was designed by Craig Ellwood in 1953. The residence has been meticulously maintained over the years by its two owners, and today it’s the only surviving Case Study design by Ellwood.
Set on a flat site in the hills of Bel Air, the residence has had only two owners since its completion. With the exception of a few minor changes over the years, it remains in its original condition—and it’s now recognized as a city landmark by the Los Angeles Conservancy.
Although he was an engineer by trade and had no formal architectural training, Ellwood had a passion for using industrial materials and construction techniques in residential architecture. His approach is exhibited in Case Study House #16, which is primarily constructed of steel, glass, and concrete.
From the moment it was built, the home was celebrated for its innovative design. Translucent glass panels shield the modular steel structure, making the residence read as a floating pavilion from the street. Now, for the first time in 50 years, the property is back on the market—currently listed for $2,995,000. Scroll ahead to see inside.
"The house was innovative in its use of exposed steel structural framing, and floor-to-ceiling glass walls took advantage of spectacular views," notes the Los Angeles Conservancy. The home is located on an 8,427-square-foot lot in Bel Air, and its "layout and siting align with the views and sun orientation, taking full advantage of both."
Floor-to-ceiling glass walls invite warm natural light into the 1,664-square-foot interior.
In the living room, an original natural rock fireplace continues through the glass to divide the patio.
The home’s free-flowing floor plan seamlessly connects the main living areas.
Steel beams support the home’s roof while creating a trellised covering for the side patio.
The home displays several applications of the same materials—metal, glass, and concrete—a key characteristic of most Ellwood homes.
Tucked away in the hills of Bel Air, Case Study House #16 is a serene oasis in the center of Los Angeles.
1811 Bel Air Road in Los Angeles, CA, is currently listed for $2,995,000 by Aaron Kirman, Dalton Gomez, and Weston Littlefield of the Aaron Kirman Group at Compass.
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