John Lautner practiced architecture in Southern California for more than 55 years, making him an important figure in contemporary architecture.

John Lautner’s work largely focused on the relationships between the users, space, and nature.  As John Lautner once said, “Shelter is the most basic human need”. Bold geometry and an exciting use of concrete and glass are prominent in many Lautner buildings.  His work also featured progressive engineering.

The Chemosphere house, an octagon atop a thirty foot high concrete column, was designed for a lot so steep it was considered unbuildable.  The home has become iconic, serving as inspiration and scenery in numerous television and films.

Lautner’s design for Googie’s Coffee Shop inspired the commercial Googie style, characterized by exuberant signage aimed at car traffic.

Sources: johnlautner.org, artknowledgenews.com, apartmenttherapy.com

Tags: california, john lautner, modern architecture

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