A 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival by Paul R. Williams, the architect who designed Los Angeles for nearly everyone but himself.
What is the Blackburn Residence?
The Blackburn Residence at 4791 Cromwell Avenue is a 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival home in Los Feliz designed by Paul R. Williams, the celebrated architect known as the Architect to the Stars. Built for Bruce Blackburn, inventor of the roll-up window screen, it was designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #913 in 2008.
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Los Feliz, the Blackburn Residence at 4791 Cromwell Avenue stands as a testament to the elegance and craftsmanship of renowned architect Paul R. Williams. Built in 1927 for Bruce Blackburn, inventor of the roll-up window screen, this home is a striking example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, a style that epitomizes Southern California's romanticized past.
At a glance
An architectural masterpiece by Paul R. Williams
Designed by Paul R. Williams, known as the Architect to the Stars, the Blackburn Residence boasts hallmark features of the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The home's red clay tile roof, arched doorways, and two-story turreted tower are quintessential elements of this design. Inside, the home showcases vaulted ceilings, intricate tile work, wood paneling, and a distinctive triple fireplace, all crafted to reflect the refined yet functional ethos that Williams was famous for.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this house is its blend of indoor-outdoor living, with courtyards and patios designed to extend the interior space seamlessly into the lush landscape. Bruce Blackburn, as a nod to his invention, had roll-up window screens installed in the home, an innovation that Williams himself would incorporate into many of his future projects.
The architect to the stars
"Paul R. Williams designed homes in neighborhoods he was barred from buying into. The work outlived the prejudice."
Historic significance and preservation
In 2008, the Blackburn Residence was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument (HCM #913), cementing its status as one of Los Feliz's architectural treasures. Despite some minor updates, such as the installation of an elevator and a bathroom redesign in 1962, the home remains largely as it was when the Blackburn family lived there until 1978.
Spanish Colonial Revival in Los Feliz
The Spanish Colonial Revival style flourished in Los Angeles in the early 20th century, particularly in neighborhoods like Los Feliz. This architectural style, influenced by the early Spanish missions, features elements such as smooth stucco walls, ornate wrought ironwork, and expansive outdoor spaces, all of which are found in abundance at the Blackburn Residence.
The home is not just a landmark for its architecture but also for its place in Los Angeles history. Bruce and Lula Blackburn were active in the city's cultural circles, often hosting social gatherings that were chronicled in the local society pages. For another Williams-influenced Spanish Colonial Revival landmark nearby, see the Abraham Gore Residence.
A historic gem with timeless appeal
For those interested in the rich architectural history of Los Feliz, the Blackburn Residence is a must-see. This Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece encapsulates the grandeur and allure of the 1920s Los Angeles elite, while also standing as a testament to Paul R. Williams' enduring legacy as one of America's most celebrated architects. As a designated landmark, it may also qualify for the Mills Act, the preservation program that can significantly reduce property taxes for historic homes.
Buying or selling a historic home in Los Feliz?
Historic-Cultural Monuments reward representation that understands the architecture, the Mills Act math, and the specific buyer pool. If you are buying a home in Los Feliz or selling a Mills Act or HCM property, it pays to work with a Los Feliz architectural homes specialist. You can start with a no-pressure valuation or get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Paul R. Williams?
Paul R. Williams was a pioneering African American architect, the first Black member of the American Institute of Architects, known as the Architect to the Stars for his many celebrity clients across Los Angeles.
When was the Blackburn Residence built?
The Blackburn Residence at 4791 Cromwell Avenue was built in 1927 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style.
Is the Blackburn Residence open to the public?
No. It is a private residence and is not open for tours. It is designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #913.
The Los Feliz Historic-Cultural Monument series
An ongoing series documenting every Historic-Cultural Monument in Los Feliz. You can also explore the full HCM guide or the architectural map.
- Ennis House: Frank Lloyd Wright's Mayan Revival Masterpiece | HCM #149
- Lovell Health House: Richard Neutra's 1929 Masterpiece | HCM #123
- Derby House: Lloyd Wright's Mayan Revival
- Midtown School: John Lautner's Organic Architecture | HCM #553
- The Jacobson House: Edward Fickett, Mid-Century Modern | HCM #674
- Sherwood House: Mid-Century Modern in The Oaks | HCM #1026
- The Shakespeare Bridge: Glendower Place | HCM #111
- Blackburn Residence: Paul R. Williams Spanish Colonial Revival | HCM #913
- Abraham Gore Residence: Spanish Colonial Revival | HCM #1061
- Durex Model Home: Spanish Revival in The Oaks | HCM #1025
- Paul Lauritz House: California's Plein Air Master | HCM #784
- Los Feliz Heights Steps: Hidden Historic Stairway | HCM #657
- Avocado Trees: Los Feliz's Natural Monument | HCM #343
About the author
Debbie Pisaro is a Los Feliz real estate specialist with 24 years of experience and founder of Coastline 840, an independent California real estate brokerage. She specializes in architectural and historic homes across Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and the Eastside, and lives in a 1907 Craftsman in Silver Lake with her Doberman, Lennon.
California DRE #01369110
Paul R. Williams's Blackburn Residence is one of many designated homes here. It is one of more than fifty Historic-Cultural Monuments in Los Feliz. For the full overview, see the Los Feliz HCM guide, browse the complete collection of Los Feliz monuments, and if you are weighing designation for your own home, here is how to get a home designated.