Taska Cleveland's renovation of Rudolph Schindler's How House stands as a testament to the seamless integration of historical preservation and contemporary design. By honoring Schindler's pioneering modernist principles while introducing modern comforts and diverse artistic elements, Cleveland has ensured the house's continued relevance and vibrancy. The project highlights a thoughtful approach to architectural heritage, demonstrating that evolving an iconic structure doesn't diminish its spirit but rather enriches it for future generations. This careful balance between past and present creates spaces that are both functional and deeply contemplative, inviting occupants to engage with the architecture in new and meaningful ways.
The meticulous restoration of original features, such as the redwood paneling and concrete floors, alongside the introduction of carefully selected furnishings and art, showcases a profound respect for the house's legacy. Cleveland's vision allows the unique interplay of wood, glass, and concrete to shine, while her curated additions from various cultures and eras prevent the interior from feeling anachronistic. The result is a harmonious blend that respects the house's past as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, making it a living museum that constantly adapts to contemporary living without sacrificing its inherent modernist character.
Preserving Modernist Heritage with Contemporary Flair
The How House, a significant early work by Rudolph Schindler, built in 1925, has been thoughtfully revitalized by interior designer Taska Cleveland. This 2,400 sq ft residence, recognized as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, is a prime example of California modernism. Cleveland's approach centered on integrating modern living requirements while safeguarding the architectural integrity of Schindler's original design. Her interventions were carefully considered to allow the house to evolve naturally, maintaining its foundational spirit. This involved ensuring that contemporary comforts were subtly woven into the fabric of the home, allowing the original design to remain clear, impactful, and fully appreciable.
The renovation began with the meticulous restoration of original elements. Redwood-paneled ceilings, walls, windows, and doors were carefully sanded to reveal the natural warmth of the wood, removing layers of old stain. Concrete floors were expertly restored and given a red hue, drawing inspiration from architect John Lautner, thus reinforcing the house’s modernist lineage. Cleveland’s furnishing choices were made to create serene and contemplative spaces, inviting residents and guests to relax and appreciate Schindler's rhythmic use of wood, glass, and concrete. Rather than merely replicating the modernist aesthetic, Cleveland brought her distinct vision, artfully combining craftsmanship from different eras and cultures to create a layered and dynamic interior. This delicate balance of old and new ensures that the How House remains both a historical treasure and a functional, beautiful modern home.
A Curated Journey Through Art and Design
The interior design of the How House, under Taska Cleveland's guidance, takes visitors on a curated journey that harmonizes diverse artistic and cultural influences. The entryway immediately sets a sophisticated tone with a George Nakashima ottoman and a floating walnut console by Madera Build, adorned with Japanese stoneware by Michio Koinuma and a Carl-Harry Stålhane dish. In the main living area, a bespoke sofa upholstered in BDDW green mohair is complemented by an Arien Valizadeh painting. Custom brown velvet lounge chairs face an angora goatskin rug and a bronze-and-zinc coffee table by Marcin Rusak, while a Hans Wegner chair paired with a Mira Nakashima side table creates a compelling dialogue between classic and contemporary pieces.
Further enhancing the architectural flow, a concrete double-sided fireplace connects the living and dining rooms, echoing Schindler’s emphasis on open spatial concepts. Custom cherry wood built-in benches, nestled beneath mitered glass windows, are adorned with sculptural objects like a Nepalese resho paper lamp by North Vernon and ceramics by Rando Aso. The mezzanine level, overlooking the surrounding treetops, features Loro Piana linen cushions that reflect the natural tones of the eucalyptus. The den continues this rich material narrative with plaster walls inspired by Eric Lloyd Wright’s designs, complemented by redwood and rust-colored drapery. Furnishings include a nubuck leather sofa by Soot, a reupholstered Gerrit Rietveld chair, and an angular coffee table by Pali Xisto Cornelsen. Practical additions like a custom brass wet bar and cherry wood storage are seamlessly integrated, respecting the existing architecture. Upstairs, intimate spaces such as the primary bedroom boast bronze mirror panels, vintage Giuseppe Ostuni sconces, and a Paul László-inspired bed, alongside a cantilevered desk and a luxurious limestone tub in the renovated bath. Guest rooms are similarly appointed with custom cherry beds, vintage sconces, limestone sinks, and plaster walls. Throughout the house, carefully placed artworks and sculptural objects, including pieces by Kwangho Lee, extend the architectural language into every corner, making the How House a vibrant and dynamic space.