The Jacobson House – Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument #674
Built: 1960 Declared: 2/25/2000
If you're a fan of mid-century modern architecture, then the Jacobson House at 4520 Dundee Drive in Los Feliz is a must-see. Declared a Historic Cultural Monument (HCM #674) on February 25, 2000, this iconic home designed by the renowned architect Edward Fickett is a testament to the timeless elegance and forward-thinking design that defined the mid-20th century.
A Look at the Architect: Edward Fickett
Edward Fickett, a celebrated architect from the mid-century modern movement, is known for his clean lines, open spaces, and integration of indoor and outdoor living. His designs often emphasized functionality while maintaining a distinct aesthetic appeal. Fickett’s work helped shape the architectural landscape of Los Angeles, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. With a focus on blending modernity with the natural environment, his homes remain beloved by architecture enthusiasts and homeowners alike.
The Jacobson House in Los Feliz: Design and Features
Completed in the early 1960s, the Jacobson House in Los Feliz is a prime example of Fickett’s skill in marrying form and function. The home is set in a tranquil location on Dundee Drive, nestled within a neighborhood that reflects the mid-century modern ethos with its low-slung roofs, large glass windows, and open layouts. Here’s a closer look at some key features of the home:
Open Floor Plan: True to mid-century modern design, the house boasts an open floor plan that fosters a seamless flow between the living spaces. Large windows allow natural light to flood the interiors, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Connection to the Outdoors: Edward Fickett was a pioneer in blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The Jacobson House in Los Feliz reflects this with its ample use of sliding glass doors that open to an expansive outdoor area, perfect for entertaining or enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Geometric Shapes and Clean Lines: Fickett’s design uses geometric forms and sharp, clean lines that give the home a sleek and minimalist appearance. These design choices, along with the home’s open floor plan, create an enduring sense of modernity and sophistication.
Functional Spaces: While aesthetic is a key feature, functionality is never compromised in Fickett's designs. The Jacobson House is thoughtfully laid out, with a focus on maximizing living space and minimizing unnecessary elements. The large windows provide expansive views of the surrounding area, enhancing the connection to the outdoors.
Historic Significance
The Jacobson House in Los Feliz was designated as a Historic Cultural Monument by the City of Los Angeles due to its architectural significance and its embodiment of the mid-century modern movement. Homes like the Jacobson House represent a crucial period in Los Angeles’ architectural history, showcasing how modernist principles influenced residential design during the 1950s and 1960s.
Why the Jacobson House Stands Out
The Jacobson House is more than just a home; it is a reflection of a pivotal moment in architectural history. Its mid-century modern aesthetic continues to captivate those who appreciate timeless design, and its place as a Historic Cultural Monument further solidifies its importance in the context of Los Angeles’ architectural evolution.
For homebuyers and architecture lovers alike, the Jacobson House in Los Feliz remains a rare and exquisite example of Edward Fickett’s work. Its unique design elements, historical significance, and seamless integration of modernist principles make it an architectural landmark in Los Angeles.
Whether you’re exploring homes in Los Feliz or diving into the heart of mid-century modern design, the Jacobson House serves as a lasting example of the vision and craftsmanship that defined an era. Its continued recognition as a Historic Cultural Monument ensures that this beautiful piece of architecture will remain a celebrated gem in Los Angeles for generations to come.
🔎 More Historic Homes in Los Feliz:
Sherwood House by William Beckett – Mid-Century Modern on Amesbury Drive (HCM #1026)
A striking example of early 1960s Modernism nestled in the Oaks.Blackburn Residence – Spanish Colonial Revival on Cromwell Ave (HCM #913)
Beautifully preserved, with all the architectural drama of its 1920s roots.Abraham Gore Residence – 2208 N. Catalina Street (HCM #1061)
An early-20th-century Craftsman with ties to LA’s civic history.Avocado Trees – 4400 Block of Avocado Street (HCM #343)
One of LA’s rare natural HCM designations — a quiet icon of the neighborhood.
