Harry Gesner was a self-taught California architect whose midcentury residences have stood the test of time, inspired by Southern California’s rugged landscapes. His creation at 1443 Devlin Drive in the Hollywood Hills recently hit the market for $8.4 million, featuring glass walls and soaring wooden beams that blend seamlessly with the hillside setting. With views of downtown Los Angeles, the Capitol Records building, and the Pacific coast, the home offers a wide patio that surrounds the house, providing ample access to the stunning vistas.
Built in 1960, the four-bedroom home spans 6,500 square feet and showcases Gesner’s signature design elements, including a sunken conversation pit and sleek stone flooring. The dining area shares the same stone flooring and expansive views, while the primary bedroom boasts a fireplace, lounging areas, a luxurious bathroom, walk-in closets, and a unique three-sided aquarium. Additional features of the home include multiple bathrooms, a screening room, wet bar, wine room, tasting nook, gym/yoga room, and a marble shower.
The property has been updated with a heated saltwater pool, solar panels, and new outdoor decking tiles. Over the years, the home has been owned by notable figures such as film director and producer Jack Haley Jr., actress and singer Liza Minnelli, and singer Christina Aguilera. Gesner passed away in 2020 at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking designs that celebrate California’s dramatic landscapes. Some of his other notable works include the Boat Houses in the Hollywood Hills, the Wave House in Malibu, and the Triangle House in the Valley.
Gesner’s designs have become architectural landmarks, known for their innovative approach to indoor-outdoor living and their ability to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings. The Boat Houses, resembling small wooden boats suspended over a canyon, and the Wave House, perched above a beach in Malibu, are just a few examples of his unique creations. With a career spanning decades, Gesner’s influence on the architectural landscape of California is undeniable, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire designers and homeowners alike. The listing agents for the Devlin Drive residence are Levik Stephan and Anita Stephan of Hilton & Hyland.
Overall, Harry Gesner’s impact on the world of architecture is undeniable, with his midcentury homes still retaining a sense of modernity and timelessness. From his innovative design elements to his ability to blend seamlessly with Southern California’s rugged landscapes, Gesner’s work continues to inspire admiration and awe. The Devlin Drive residence is just one example of his masterful creations, offering a glimpse into his unique vision and design aesthetic. As a self-taught architect, Gesner’s legacy lives on through his iconic structures that have become architectural landmarks in their own right.