Additional Coverage:
- ‘Time capsule’ LA home torn down by Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger could have been shown ‘some honor,’ designer’s daughter says (newsbreak.com)
Hollywood A-Listers Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger Spark Outrage with Demolition of Historic LA House
In a controversial move that has upset architecture aficionados and preservationists alike, Hollywood actor Chris Pratt and his wife, author Katherine Schwarzenegger, have demolished a renowned 1950s Los Angeles house, known as the “Zimmerman House,” to make way for a brand new mansion. The couple forked out $12.5 million for the property, famed for its embodiment of midcentury modern design by acclaimed architect Craig Ellwood.
The decision has drawn criticism, most notably from Ellwood’s daughter, who publicly expressed her disappointment at the lack of effort to preserve or honor her father’s work in any form. The Zimmerman House was celebrated for its architectural uniqueness, boasting features like expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a distinctive stone fireplace that stood as a testament to the period’s design ethos.
Despite the outcry, Pratt and Schwarzenegger appear to be forging ahead with their plans to construct a lavish 15,000-square-foot residence on the site. Esteemed architect Ken Ungar has been enlisted to design the new home, which aims to accommodate the couple’s growing family and desire to reside in close proximity to Schwarzenegger’s mother, who lives on the same street.
Craig Ellwood, through the voice of family, has suggested that there were viable alternatives to the complete demolition of his architectural work. Recommendations included adding to the existing structure in a manner that could have innovated upon the original design while preserving its historical significance. Such an approach would have offered a nod to architectural enthusiasts and provided what many believe would have been a deserved tribute to the Zimmerman House before its ultimate demolition.
The loss of the Zimmerman House has sparked a broader conversation regarding the preservation of architectural heritage and the responsibilities of private homeowners in maintaining the integrity of historically significant structures. As the dust settles on what was once a hallmark of midcentury modern design, many are left wondering what the future holds for preserving the past amidst the ever-changing landscape of Los Angeles’ luxury real estate market.