restoration

MODERN RESTORATION
The simple elegance of Modernism is a timeless aesthetic. Yet, its clean lines and natural materials often fall victim to age, neglect, or misguided renovations. In response to these challenges and in an effort to preserve our architectural heritage, we have become involved in the burgeoning discipline of Modern restoration.

TREATMENT
Restoration ensures the survival of work by mid-century masters by creating students of us all. Our treatment of the modern artifact can be a rigorous academic exercise, a study in building technology, or an investigation of shifts in our cultural philosophy.

PROCESS
The process often mirrors that of an archaeological excavation and affords a more profound understanding of the original architect’s intent. We learn from the building and its materials. We trace the development of technology and practice. We witness the underlying exuberance of a Schindler or the meticulous care of a Neutra.

PROJECTS
Restoration is our continuing education in the fundamentals of Modernism. From reviving the Richard Neutra-designed Kaufmann House in Palm Springs to updating Cliff May’s Experimental Ranch, our restoration work has made us better architects and builders.

In addition to work by Neutra and May, we have been privileged to work on Modernist icons such as the Elliot House by R. M. Schindler, the Garcia House by John Lautner, the Loewy House by Albert Frey, the Hilltop Studio by Thornton Ladd, and the Katleman Residence by Buff, Straub & Hensman.

For our efforts, we have been honored with awards from the American Institute of Architects and the California Preservation Foundation.