1915 Walcott Way
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Asking Price: $899,000
2 bedrooms | 1.5 bathrooms | 1,115 Sq. Ft. | Built in 1951
Welcome to The Kung Residence! Built by pioneering mid-century architect Gilbert Leong in 1951, this is one unique beauty with all the attributes that made Leong’s homes so rare and wonderful. A sublime combination of influences, including elements of mid-century modern, streamline moderne, and ancient Chinese architecture, 1915 Walcott Way is visually captivating and conceptually daring.
It’s easy to see why Leong’s homes deploy such a wide array of architectural styles. He studied under the absolute best. A native Angeleno born in 1911 to Chinese American immigrants, he originally studied sculpture and painting at Chouinard Art School. And his homes do seem to have a painterly quality and they are nothing if not sculptural.
Leong then became the very first Chinese American to graduate from USC’s architecture program. He then worked alongside the masters Paul Williams (easily one of my top five Los Angeles architects) and Harwell Hamilton Harris, two geniuses who are frequently credited with developing the look, tone, and feel of L.A. in the first half of the century. Leong soon branched out on his own to design various residential and commercial buildings in Los Angeles, many of which are still standing today.
Located at the top of Elysian Heights in Echo Park, this two bedroom has been fully restored to Leong’s original vision with a newly painted exterior and fresh landscaping.
The home’s multiple decks offers spectacular views of the Griffith Observatory to the San Gabriel Mountains. The location, sharp angles and lines all unite to create something that feels truly stratospheric.
Inside the home you will find an incredible indoor/outdoor living space.
The living room boasts a mid-century brick fireplace, gorgeous wood paneled walls, a vaulted wood beamed ceiling, hardwood floors, and near wall-to-wall glass on one side.
The home’s treetop deck has inspiring views of the San Gabriels and feels private and peaceful.
The colorful Art Deco-inspired kitchen has just the right amount of vintage and modern. The refrigerator may be stainless steel but the stove is period appropriate.
The kitchen also opens to the deck for easy indoor/outdoor entertaining.
The spacious master suite demonstrates further Leong’s signature style.
The master has divine built-in closets that, believe it or not, are original the home. This great bedroom also has a private access deck that is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the Echo Park sunsets.
The full bath is simple and succinct yet timeless.
The second bedroom is ideal for overnight guests or to be used as an office/work space. Notice the great built-in shelving at the top of the bedroom. I love that kind of thing, perfect for displaying some of your favorite items you’ve picked up here and there and over the years.
The Kung Residence also has another half bath, laundry, and parking for three.
Not only is 1915 Walcott a piece of Echo Park history, it’s a piece of Los Angeles history and a staggering achievement of a mid-century modern mastermind. The home’s timberwork, geometric patterns, sharp lines, and multiple terraces all integrate into one of stunning piece of work. This is the home’s first time on the market in over twenty years. Don’t miss it.
I’d love to show you 1915 Walcott Way in Echo Park or find you other architecturally significant homes on the east side and beyond. I don’t think 1915 Walcott will last on the market very long. Call me today at (937) 243-2349 or email me at tatiana.tensen@sothebyshomes.com to schedule a tour.
Listing provided courtesy of Paul Przybyla, Compass.