Mid-Century Modern buffs, lace up your running shoes. Fanatics are lining up for a chance to tour (and possibly own) architect Raphael Soriano's best-preserved work, The Grossman House, a pristine, four-bedroom Studio City home that hasn't changed hands since its 1964 commission.
For the first time, the $2.9 million, 3,886-square-foot abode is open for private showings -- but be warned: You might lose track of time once you step inside its glass walls.
"Everyone that comes through falls apart at the seams and doesn't want to leave," says listing agent Susan Blau of Homes in LA. "Showings are two hours long."
The key to its appeal? Its unspoiled architecture and dcor, with every room perfectly preserved. It's true mid-century -- without the modern influences so common in vintage homes today.
"No one has come in there and mucked it up with granite," Blau says. Original materials abound, from the Micarta laminate demising walls inside to the perforated aluminum surrounding the outdoor gardens and pool. The kitchen is a preservationist's dream, outfitted with canary yellow cabinetry and original appliances (some have been updated). At the bar, immaculate Herman Miller bar stools are mounted to the floor.
Constructed of aluminum, steel, and glass -- if you position yourself correctly, you can see through the entire home -- the home might seem exposed, but Blau says visitors are shocked by how intensely private it actually feels.
"Everything is exposed to the outdoors, but it feels extremely private," she says. The home encases an enormous solarium filled with skylights, giving every room a view and bringing in greenery and light without sacrificing seclusion.
Speaking of Herman Miller, collectors will be overjoyed by the home's pristine vintage furniture. While it's currently not included in the price, Blau says, "it should go with the house. I suspect there will be a number of people asking for the furniture as well."
Renovators be warned: If you're looking to update the home with the latest and greatest -- or the idea of tearing out a wall or two seems appealing -- look elsewhere. As a designated Historic Cultural Monument (dubbed "El Paradiso"), any modifications will be extensively reviewed.
"It's like buying artwork," says Blau. "Aside from bringing it up to date, one would think the buyer of this house would be more of a caretaker. It's like a Renoir, or some other fabulous painting. You own it, you care for it, and you don't trash it."