An Imposing Concrete, Glass, and Steel Home by Ray Kappe Lists for $5.5M

Architecture 24-2-2020 DWell 275

Nestled within a canopy of trees, the 1980s hard-edge design epitomizes Kappe's form of modernism.

Perched on the hill behind the property is a curvaceous pool and spa. Imitating the home's form and materials, the relaxing area provides an oasis within Los Angeles.

Influential architect Ray Kappe, who passed away last November, spent his decades-long career merging modernist ideals with the traditional California aesthetic. An educator and urban planner, Kappe is perhaps best known for designing over 100 custom homes, many of which are located in the hills of greater Los Angeles. One such property, a Pacific Palisades home made of concrete, glass, and steel is a monument to Kappe's unique blend of materials and form.

In this design, architect Ray Kappe utilized concrete, glass, and steel to mold the unique form. The home, located between Rustic Canyon and Will Rogers State Park in Pacific Palisades, rests on a sloping terrain and is surrounded by a dense landscape.
Photo by Elizabeth Daniels Photography for Sotheby’s International Realty

The three-level home, built in 1980, embraces its location within a heavily wooded lot. A dramatic, heavily glazed atrium-like space rises along one side of the structure, curving upward to allow the canopy of trees to drape overhead. A concrete-block form drapes down the other side of the home, broken up by multiple terraces and outdoor spaces off of each level.

One of the home's main features is the dramatic full-height atrium, which overlooks the canyon and surrounding wooded landscape. Extensive glazing on three sides floods the steel-framed space in natural light throughout the day.
Photo by Elizabeth Daniels Photography for Sotheby’s International Realty

The material's raw form continues inside, which is dominated by concrete blocks, wood, and glass to create contemporary, light-filled spaces. Offering three bedrooms and three bathrooms, the 3,574-square-foot residence remains true to Kappe's original design with only minimal maintenance and changes since its original construction. Keep scrolling to see more of this property, currently listed for $5,500,000.