Surfer-Architect Harry Gesner’s Futuristic Triangle House Is for Sale
Southern California native and self-taught architect Harry Gesner grew up surfing, and the influence of the ocean is clear in his work, from his famous Wave House—whose cresting roofline reportedly inspired the Sydney Opera House—to the Sandcastle. Fans of the maverick designer now have an opportunity to live in one of his visionary creations, the Triangle House in Tarzana, California, just outside L.A.
The home’s dramatic triangular facade is nestled into the natural surroundings and features an expansive entry with a geometric carport.
The dramatic, 5,278-square-foot home sits on almost 1.3 acres of land at the end of a private driveway with a gate that looks like it’s straight out of a ’70s sci-fi flick. Nestled into the hillside, the main home is defined by its retro-futuristic triangular facade and paired with a geometric carport. At the rear, a guesthouse mirrors the angular frame.
The interiors are bright and airy, with floor-to-ceiling glass and an open-concept layout.
Inside, the spacious communal area features an open floor plan that includes a groovy, sunken den with a cozy fireplace and an updated kitchen full of light wood and white cabinetry. Full-height windows welcome natural light and bring a sense of the surrounding greenery into the home.
There are four bedrooms and six bathrooms, including a large master bedroom suite with a private balcony and a serene, pale blue–tiled bathroom. Downstairs, a family room warmly paneled with light wood connects to the patio and pool area through sliding glass doors. "The home’s connection with nature both day and night reflects Gesner’s genius," shares listing agent Gary Wolfe. Keep scrolling for a look inside.
The slope of the triangular facade creates a dramatic frame for garden views.
The updated kitchen features light wood and sparkling white cabinetry.
The spacious set up makes for easy entertaining.
A sunken den, complete with a fireplace, creates an intimate setting for lounging and conversation.
The interior spaces are at once defined and fluid, with the sloping ceiling height creating a dynamic sense of expansion and contraction.
Downstairs, a bright family room with light wood–paneled walls has floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors that provide direct access to the pool.
A crisp, updated midcentury feel permeates the family room.
The spacious master suite has greenery-filled views—and its own private terrace.
The view from the master bedroom.
Pale blue glass tiles cover the master bathroom, where a frosted glass window brings in light without compromising privacy.
A large patio helps facilitate an indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
The triangular guesthouse mirrors the main house, and is separated by an expansive outdoor space with a fire pit.
The guesthouse would make an excellent home office.
The pool is surrounded by a concrete corridor that follows its curve.
Overhead beams in the poolside corridor echo the main home’s angled form.
The front gate is decidedly spaceship-chic.
4946 Vanalden is currently listed for $3,999,900 with Gary Wolfe of Trisha Perez and Associates.
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