For the first time in 65 years, one of Los Angeles' most celebrated architectural landmarks is on the market. The Stahl House, also known as Case Study House #22, has been listed for sale with an asking price of $25 million, offering a rare opportunity to own a significant piece of mid-century modern history.
The property has remained in the hands of the Stahl family since its completion in 1960. Its sale marks the end of an era for the iconic glass-and-steel home, which has famously captured the panoramic views of Los Angeles in countless photographs, films, and advertisements.
Key Takeaways
- The Stahl House is for sale for the first time with an asking price of $25 million.
- The property has been owned by the Stahl family for 65 years, since its construction in 1960.
- Designed by architect Pierre Koenig, it is a world-renowned example of mid-century modernism.
- The home was part of the influential Case Study House program, which aimed to redefine post-war residential living.
A Landmark of Post-War Design
The Stahl House was born from a vision to create innovative and affordable housing after World War II. It was commissioned as part of the Case Study House program, an influential architectural experiment sponsored by Arts & Architecture magazine. The program's editor, John Entenza, launched the initiative in 1945 to challenge architects to design homes using modern industrial materials and replicable construction methods.
The original owners, Buck and Carlotta Stahl, enlisted architect Pierre Koenig to bring their dream home to life on a challenging Hollywood Hills lot. The result was a 2,200-square-foot structure that appeared to float above the city, with glass walls erasing the boundary between the interior and the sprawling urban landscape below. The home became Case Study House #22 and quickly emerged as one of the program's most successful and recognizable creations.
Historical Significance
The Stahl House was officially added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 2013, cementing its status as a protected architectural treasure.
More Than a Home, a Cultural Icon
While it served as a family residence, the Stahl House also became a global symbol of California modernism. Its minimalist aesthetic and dramatic setting have made it a sought-after location for Hollywood films, high-fashion photoshoots, and advertising campaigns for decades. The structure's clean lines and seamless integration with its environment have influenced generations of architects and designers worldwide.
The home's enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and its celebration of its location. The floor-to-ceiling glass panels offer uninterrupted views, making the city of Los Angeles an integral part of the living space. This design philosophy was revolutionary for its time and continues to be a benchmark for modern residential architecture.
The Case Study House Program
Running from 1945 to 1966, the Case Study House program produced 36 designs, many of which were built and became influential models for modern living. The program's goal was to showcase how modern materials and design principles could create efficient, stylish, and accessible homes for the average American family in the post-war era.
The Search for a New Custodian
The decision to sell the property was framed not just as a real estate transaction, but as a transfer of a cultural legacy. The listing emphasizes the unique responsibility that will come with owning such a historically significant property.
"This is not merely a sale; it is a passing of responsibility --- a search for the next custodian who will honor the house's history, respect its architectural purity, and ensure its preservation for generations to come."
The statement from the listing agent highlights the expectation that the new owner will act as a guardian for the home. In a city known for constant change and development, the sale of the Stahl House is a pivotal moment. The real estate community and architecture enthusiasts will be watching closely to see who takes on the role of preserving this iconic structure.
The agent's message is clear: while Los Angeles has many remarkable homes, there is only one Stahl House. Its future now depends on finding a buyer who values its past as much as its breathtaking views.
