Exploring the Legacy of a Renowned Architect: The Wirin House by Richard Neutra
When it comes to home renovations, experts often advise against making major changes until you’ve had a chance to live in the space. This is especially true for a midcentury masterpiece like the 1949 Wirin House in Los Feliz, California, designed by the iconic modernist architect Richard Neutra. Alberto Chehebar and Jocelyne Katz, the current homeowners of this architectural gem, understand the importance of preserving its historical significance. As Katz bluntly puts it, “The house owns us.”
Having acquired the residence from the estate of A.L. Wirin, a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union, the couple has approached their stewardship of the property with great care and respect. Despite being avid collectors of contemporary art and splitting their time between New York and Madrid, Chehebar and Katz have embraced the responsibility of maintaining the integrity of the house that Neutra built for the Wirin family.
Upon purchasing the home, which had been meticulously restored by photographer Mark Seliger and restoration expert Mark Haddawy, Chehebar and Katz made minimal alterations, ensuring that any modifications were in keeping with the original design. From subtle updates like period-appropriate blinds to more noticeable changes such as replacing the upholstery on the living room sofas with striking red velvet, the couple has enhanced the warmth and character of the space while staying true to Neutra’s vision.
Throughout the residence, elements of nature are reflected in the choice of colors and materials, from the green upholstery on Gio Ponti chairs in the dining room to the earthy tones of the linoleum tile and redwood ceiling. Artwork by renowned artists like Rita Ackermann and Cindy Sherman further connects the interior to the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious blend of art and architecture.
As they continue to appreciate and care for the Wirin House, Chehebar and Katz have found a profound connection to its history and spirit. Their thoughtful approach to preserving this architectural treasure serves as a testament to their reverence for Neutra’s enduring legacy.
Refrigerator. Garage. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
Chehebar and Katz transformed the garage into a stylish home office, featuring a sleek chair by Eero Saarinen and captivating artwork by Keith Haring. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
In the primary bedroom, the built-in furniture and sconces maintain their original charm, complemented by bedding from Parachute and a striking artwork piece by Scott Kahn. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
An architectural gem captured in a vintage Julius Shulman image showcases the house’s picturesque view overlooking downtown Los Angeles. Photo credit: Julius Shulman Photography Archive.
The living room boasts a captivating George Condo artwork adorning the brick wall, alongside a vintage chair by Philip Arctander and a stylish cocktail table designed by Isamu Noguchi. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
Moving to the dining room, a captivating painting by Henry Taylor adds an artistic touch to the space. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
In the guest bath, a sculpture by Genesis Belanger serves as a focal point, while the original terrazzo shower stall adds a touch of elegance to the room. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
Outside in the garden, a magnificent Stan Edmondson sculpture graces the landscape, surrounded by rare oak trees, eucalyptus, and jacaranda plants. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
While Seliger opted for a neutral decor with minimal art, Chehebar and Katz’s eclectic collection brings a fresh perspective, bridging L.A.’s contemporary art scene with its modernist roots. The dining room serves as a rotating gallery for smaller works, currently featuring paintings by Henry Taylor and Anna Weyant. “Jocelyne enjoys creating puzzles, arranging and rearranging the artworks before hanging them,” Chehebar explains. “This wall has seen multiple curations.” A painting by Claire Tabouret graces a wall in the downstairs sitting room, alongside a vintage chair designed by Gio Ponti. Photo credit: Chris Mottalini.
The homeowners have also infused their unique style into the 2,200-square-foot garage, now serving as their office space. Adorned with a George Nelson wall unit, Saarinen Tulip chairs, and a Keith Haring subway drawing, the garage exudes creativity and character. “The cars remain outside, while the art finds its place indoors,” Chehebar remarks, reflecting on the garage’s transformation.
Upon moving in, the lush landscape was overgrown, but through meticulous care, paths have been carved through the rare oak trees, eucalyptus, and jacaranda, accentuated by strategically placed artworks. A Stan Edmondson ceramic sculpture, with raised arms seemingly cheering at downtown L.A., adds the final touch. The sculpture’s textured black clay mirrors the nearby cacti, creating a harmonious and art
