A Deep Dive into Crestwood Hills’ Iconic Mid-Century Modern Homes

Crestwood Hills is known for its architecture rooted in post-war ideals and modernist design. Built as a cooperative in the late 1940s and early 1950s, the neighborhood features homes designed by influential architects who prioritized simplicity, structure, and harmony with the natural landscape. These houses are not replicas or inspired versions — they are original mid-century designs that still stand today.

This guide explores individual homes that define the architectural identity of Crestwood Hills, each contributing to the neighborhood’s reputation as a key destination for mid-century architecture in Los Angeles.

Crestwood Hills began as an innovative cooperative housing experiment launched by young professionals in post-war Los Angeles. The founders — many of them musicians and creatives—formed the Mutual Housing Association in the late 1940s. They aimed to create an architecturally unified hillside community in Brentwood that would emphasize modern design, shared values, and sensitivity to the land.

Architects A. Quincy Jones, Whitney R. Smith, and engineer Edgardo Contini played central roles in shaping the development’s design philosophy. Their vision for Crestwood Hills centered on affordable, efficient, and stylistically consistent homes, with a strong emphasis on open plans, indoor-outdoor continuity, and functional design. While not all homes from the original plan were completed, those that remain are among the most significant examples of early mid-century modern architecture in Los Angeles.

Designed in 1950 by A. Quincy Jones and Whitney R. Smith, the Volk House is a testament to meticulous restoration. Architect Cory Buckner restored the home in 2006, replicating details from the original blueprints, including post-and-beam construction, tongue-and-groove ceilings, and clerestory windows. Designated as Historic-Cultural Monument #722, the Volk House offers panoramic views of Santa Monica Bay, blending modern luxury with historical significance.

Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac, the Bernheim House, designed by Ray Kappe in 1959, exemplifies the integration of form, design, and light. Kappe's design captures views of The Getty and the surrounding natural environment, creating a serene living space that reflects the principles of mid-century modern architecture.

The Sale Residence, designed by Richard Neutra in 1960, is located at 1531 North Tigertail Road. This home features floor-to-ceiling sliding glass walls, paneled interiors, and custom cabinetry, embodying Neutra's commitment to integrating architecture with the surrounding landscape. The design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, making it a notable example of mid-century modern homes in Crestwood Hills.

Designed by Craig Ellwood in 1953, the Johnson Residence showcases Ellwood's modernist approach. The home features wood beams, expansive glass walls, and a minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing openness and a strong connection to nature. Ellwood's design aligns with the core principles of mid-century modern homes in Crestwood Hills.

The Arens House, designed by A. Quincy Jones in 1949, is recognized as Historic-Cultural Monument No. 720. This landmark home exemplifies the forward-looking vision of the Mutual Housing Association's postwar experiment, integrating modern design with the natural surroundings of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Designed by A. Quincy Jones in 1948, the Schott House is a Los Angeles Historic Landmark. As one of the earliest homes in Crestwood Hills, it laid the foundation for the neighborhood's architectural identity, showcasing the sophistication and design of mid-century modern homes.

The Hammerman House, designed by Richard Neutra in 1954, is a modern gem with stunning views. Positioned behind gates on over half an acre, the home features four bedrooms and four and a half baths, exemplifying Neutra's architectural excellence and attention to detail.

Initially completed in 1958, the Smith House by Craig Ellwood has been meticulously restored under the direction of James Tyler, an Ellwood associate. The home continues to showcase mid-century modern architecture, with wood beams stretching across the ceiling and glass walls creating a timeless aesthetic.

The homes featured in Crestwood Hills, from the Volk House and Bernheim House to the Sale and Smith residences, are more than design statements. They represent a coordinated effort to redefine how architecture could serve daily life after World War II. The neighborhood remains one of the few places where multiple renowned architects contributed original residential designs within a unified development.

Each mid-century modern home in Crestwood Hills demonstrates how architectural intention can shape everyday living. The neighborhood remains one of the most complete collections of this style in Los Angeles, with houses that are preserved, lived in, and updated with care. Crestwood Hills offers access to architecture that is not just visually aligned but functionally enduring. The homes here show what is possible when design responds to site, structure, and shared values without compromise. Mid-century modern homes in Crestwood Hills continue to attract those who appreciate form that follows function and design that respects place.

Navigating the Crestwood Hills real estate market requires understanding the area’s architectural guidelines and subtle market dynamics. O’Connor Estates brings deep expertise in this iconic neighborhood, offering strategic guidance rooted in years of experience representing mid-century and luxury hillside properties. Their team understands what makes Crestwood Hills unique and provides a tailored approach to every transaction.

Connect with their team to take the next step in your real estate journey. View homes for sale in Crestwood Hills.