The demolition of Craig Ellwood’s renowned Zimmerman House by Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger has sparked criticism from architectural preservationists and the public alike.
Actor Chris Pratt and his wife, Katherine Schwarzenegger, have recently come under fire for their decision to demolish a historic home they purchased for $12.5 million last year.
It sparked outrage among architectural preservationists and the public.
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Mid-Century Marvel
The home in question, known as the Zimmerman House, was a mid-century masterpiece designed by architect Craig Ellwood. It’s revered for its iconic residential design, according to The Guardian.
The demolition of such a significant piece of architectural history has raised concerns among preservationists about the loss of California’s architectural heritage.
Ellwood’s daughter expressed to Los Angeles Times her disappointment. She stated, “I think it would have been really cool to keep it and do something… add to it in a really interesting, innovative way. But you know, maybe this just isn’t their style. I mean, it clearly isn’t if they’re building a farmhouse.”
Reports from Architectural Digest indicate that Pratt and his wife, Katherine Schwarzenegger, purchased the lot for $12.5 million with plans to build a new mansion.
According to the Los Angeles Times, architect Ken Ungar, renowned for his modern farmhouse residences, will design their new home.
Whispers of Discontent
Groups like the Los Angeles Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving historic architecture, have not well-received the decision to demolish the Zimmerman House.
The Eichler Network, an advocate for mid-century homes in California, also expressed sadness over the destruction.
Architectuul notes that Craig Ellwood is an influential modernist architect based in Los Angeles. He blended the formalism of Mies van der Rohe with the informal style of California modernism.
Pratt and Schwarzenegger’s new mansion, designed by Ken Ungar, will reportedly include a sprawling three-car garage. It will also have an auxiliary unit adjacent to the pool area, as per Architectural Digest.
The property sits across the street from Maria Shriver, Schwarzenegger’s mother.
The demolition of the Zimmerman House highlights the ongoing tension between modern development and historical preservation.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage for future generations.
Banner photo via Architectuul’s official website.
