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The Case Study House Program: an Architectural Legacy
Mediterranean vibe, invisible kitchen and more.
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Hi y'all 👋
Happy Thursday and welcome to the 319 new subscribers this week! 🎉
In today's thrilling edition, we'll embark on a time-traveling adventure to unearth the origins of the legendary Case Study House Program, help you transform your garden into a verdant oasis, and equip you with the know-how to dodge design-related dating disasters.
So, let's get right to it!
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📰 The Story
🔍 The Case Study House Program: A Bold Experiment
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Case Study House #22 - Stahl House, Pierre Koenig, 1959
It's the post-WWII era, and America needs affordable and efficient housing options. That's when John Entenza, an ambitious editor of California's Arts & Architecture magazine, launched The Case Study House Program.
The goal? Design and construct eight unique houses in Southern California, showcasing affordable, replicable prototypes. The program brought together renowned architects and designers who worked together to design and build 36 innovative homes in California between 1945 and 1966. These houses became the epitome of modern living and a blueprint for contemporary architecture.
📐 Design Principles: Efficiency, Simplicity, and Affordability
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Case Study House #8 - Eames House, Charles & Ray Eames, 1949
The Case Study House Program wasn't just about aesthetics; it was a masterclass in designing functional, easy-to-build living spaces on a budget. Architects experimented with new materials and construction techniques, focusing on open floor plans, large windows, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The result? Iconic, modern homes that remain influential even today.
🌟 Influential Architects: Shaping the Future of Design
The Case Study House Program attracted some of the most influential architects of the time, including Richard Neutra, Charles and Ray Eames, and Pierre Koenig. Their ingenious designs and innovative approaches paved the way for a new era of modern residential architecture, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire today's architects and designers.
🌐 A Global Impact: The Legacy of the Case Study Houses
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Case Study House #9 - Entenza House, Charles Eames & Eero Saarinen, 1950
Though the program produced a limited number of houses, its impact resonates across the world. The Case Study Houses showcased the potential of modernist design, inspiring architects and homeowners to adopt these innovative ideas. Sleek lines, minimalist aesthetics, and an emphasis on natural light have become cornerstones of contemporary residential design – a testament to the enduring influence of the Case Study House Program.
📊 The Program by the Numbers:
At 31 years old, Ralph Rapson was the youngest of nine architects selected to participate in the seminal
Over 370,000 people toured the Case Study Houses between in 1946 and 1966
The Program was so successful that 36 houses were eventually commissioned and published
The Case Study House #22, aka The Stahl House was built in 13 months for just $37,500
Now that you've stepped back in time to explore the remarkable story of the Case Study House Program, why not draw inspiration from this pioneering movement to reimagine your own living spaces?
Stay inspired, architecture lovers! 💖
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🗃 Bits and Pieces
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For the sunny days: Jacquemus makes first foray into furniture design with this Mediterranean-inspired collection of furniture and accessories.
Insider Tips: Unearth the secrets to a flourishing garden with these expert tips, transforming your green thumb into a botanical superpower.
Kitchen makeover: This design duo despises kitchens so much, they made their office kitchen vanish like a culinary magic trick!
Curate your dates: Decode the language of love (and design!) with this intriguing look at interior design dating red flags.
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😎 Cool Corner
Hey design enthusiasts, we're bringing you a fabulous find in this week's Cool Corner that will elevate your culinary adventures. Our Place, a brand known for its beautifully designed and versatile cookware, is having a Spring Sale you don't want to miss!
The brand's pièce de résistance, the Always Pan, is an all-in-one marvel designed to replace eight traditional cookware items. Ideal for frying, steaming, sautéing, and more, it also includes a nesting steamer basket and custom spatula. With the Spring Sale underway, it's the perfect time to snag this multitasking gem and declutter your kitchen.
But that's not all! Our Place's Spring Sale also offers discounts on their sleek Perfect Pot, which excels at slow-cooking, boiling pasta, and more, available in vibrant colors. Plus, you'll find deals on their artisan porcelain dinnerware sets, elegant glassware, and attractive table linens that will add flair to your dining area.
Visit Our Place's website to take advantage of the Spring Sale and cook with flair!
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✨ Post of the week
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💡 Around the Web
On this day: In 1981, the first ever computer mouse was introduced.
That’s interesting: Charles Eames once said “Toys are not really as innocent as they look. Toys and games are precursors to serious ideas.” Thus, it wouldn’t be a far-fetched idea to see this concept by @vjeko_design come to life one day.
Weekend plan: Savor the feast for your eyes at Llama Inn, a Madrid restaurant that turns dining into a truly delectable experience!
On the market: The Florence House, designed by Rex Lottery in 1959 could be yours… for the right price.
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