Hollyhock House

There’s something about the stark forms of a Frank Lloyd Wright building that lends itself to black and white photos.

I shot these yesterday at the Hollyhock House, Wright’s 1919 ode to Mayan temples (regardless of the fact he denied the influence of that civilization’s architecture.) The centerpiece is a spacious, bright living room filled with Wright-designed quarter-sawn oak furniture and rugs – all drawn up specifically for that space. There’s even a moat that could exit the swimming pool, run under the house and fill a moat around the fireplace. Water could circulate and then exit the moat back under the living room… out the other side where it would fill a water lilly garden.

Oh, and you can’t underestimate the fact that there’s an incomparable view of Los Angeles to the west, and the mountains to the north from just about everywhere in the house, thanks to rooftop patios and balconies off every room. I’ve been looking forward to seeing this house in person since I was about 12, and it lived up to all my expectations.

I’m really glad Mom and Dad came along and enjoyed it as well. Just about everything I’ve done here has been in the framework of spending time with them, and it’s been very special.