Additional Coverage:
- Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger demolished a 1950s LA architectural gem they bought for $12.5 million, reports say (newsbreak.com)
Hollywood stars Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger have found themselves at the center of controversy following their decision to tear down a historic house in Los Angeles. The Zimmerman house, a celebrated piece of 1950s architecture, was recently purchased by the couple for a sum of $12.5 million, with plans to replace it with a large, farmhouse-style mansion.
Built in 1950 and once featured in Progressive Architecture magazine, the Zimmerman house was an iconic example of midcentury architectural design. Renowned architects, including Craig Ellwood, contributed to its singular aesthetic, making it a symbol of a bygone era in LA’s rich architectural history. The house’s demolition has, therefore, prompted a wave of disappointment and anger among architectural enthusiasts and preservationists who view its loss as a significant cultural and historical setback.
Pratt and Schwarzenegger aim to construct a 15,000-square-foot farmhouse on the site, located in the upscale Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. This move has not only ignited debate regarding the preservation of historical architecture but has also raised questions about the environmental implications of such large-scale developments.
The property’s previous owner, Hilda Rolfe, was the widow of Sam Rolfe, the co-creator of the iconic 1960s TV series “The Man from UNCLE.” Its rich history and connection to Hollywood’s past add layers to the growing discourse surrounding the couple’s controversial decision.
As advocates for architectural preservation rally against what they see as a disregard for architectural heritage, the debate continues to unfold. Meanwhile, Pratt and Schwarzenegger’s plans highlight ongoing tensions between modern development and the preservation of cultural and historical landmarks in Los Angeles.