The Ennis House is a stunning residential dwelling located in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this architectural gem was built in 1924 for Charles and Mabel Ennis.
A Unique Design Inspired by the Mayan Revival
The Ennis House is a prime example of Wright's textile block designs. Constructed using interlocking pre-cast concrete blocks, this masterpiece features intricate relief ornamentation on its 27,000 perforated and patterned decomposed granite blocks. Inspired by the symmetrical reliefs of Puuc architecture in Uxmal, the Ennis House showcases a unique blend of Mayan Revival and Textile Block architectural styles.
A Landmark of Significance
This iconic house is not just a masterpiece of design but also a designated city, state, and national landmark. It holds a special place in architectural history and is admired by enthusiasts from all over the world.
A Rich History and Renovations
The Ennis House has a rich history that spans almost a century. Over the years, it has undergone significant repairs and renovations. From 2011 to 2019, it was owned by billionaire Ronald Burkle, who invested in restoring its grandeur. In 2019, the house found new owners in Robert Rosenheck and Cindy Capobianco, renowned figures in the cannabis industry and passionate philanthropists.
A Hollywood Favorite
The Ennis House's unique and exotic design has made it a sought-after filming location for Hollywood movies, commercials, fashion shoots, and music videos. Its striking appearance has graced the silver screen in films such as "Blade Runner," "The Rocketeer," and "Mulholland Drive," among many others.
Restoration Efforts and Landmark Status
The Ennis House has faced its fair share of challenges, including structural instability and damage from earthquakes and harsh weather conditions. However, ongoing restoration efforts have helped preserve this architectural marvel. It is officially listed on the Department of the Interior, National Register of Historic Places, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation's list of Endangered Historic Places.
Experience the Ennis House
Although the Ennis House remains closed to the public, it continues to captivate the imagination of architecture enthusiasts, film lovers, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of timeless design.
If you ever get the chance, do visit Los Angeles and catch a glimpse of this exquisite masterpiece that stands as a testament to the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright.
For more information, visit the official website.
Reference: Wikipedia