These Historic Homes and Buildings Were Destroyed in the L.A. Wildfires

The devastating Los Angeles wildfires have burned over 40,000 acres, over 200,000 people were under evacuation orders at one point, and over 12,000 homes, schools, businesses, and other buildings have been destroyed—as of this writing. Included in the structures destroyed were architecturally and culturally historic homes and buildings that have been featured in TV shows, movies, and more.

Los Angeles is home to some of the greatest architecture marvels, from mid-century icons to Craftsman bungalows to Beaux-Arts business buildings to Googie diners and car washes to Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival mansions and apartments. And that’s just to name a few styles. Architecture greats including Charles and Ray Eames, Greene & Greene, John Lautner, Richard Neutra, Rudolph Schindler, Paul R. Williams, Frank Lloyd Wright, and so many more have had a hand in shaping this city through their designs.

Thankfully, many iconic homes and buildings have been safe from the wildfires, but sadly, others have been lost. The loss of these structures represents a significant cultural and historical blow to the Los Angeles community. Efforts to rebuild and preserve the city’s architectural heritage will be crucial in the aftermath of these devastating fires. We pay tribute to some of these notable buildings below.

The Andrew McNally House

The Queen Anne-style mansion in Altadena was built in 1887 by architect Frederick L. Roehrig for Andrew McNally, the cofounder and president of map company, Rand McNally. It featured a stunning three-story rotunda and was featured in TV shows and movies.

Benedict and Nancy Freedman House by Richard Neutra

Designed in 1949 by Richard Neutra for two screenwriters, the mid-century modern house was destroyed by the Palisades Fire. Dezeen writes that the original structure was built primarily with wood and had “a single low volume with massive glass windows and clerestories.” Over the years, it was remodeled and expanded as a two-story home.

Bridges House

Those driving on Sunset Boulevard could see the noteworthy Bridges house with its timber siding and concrete stilts—now it is lost to the Palisades Fire. The home was built by architect Robert Bridges, professor emeritus at USC Marshall School of Business. 

Deborah Vance’s L.A. Mansion in Hacks

A 1915 Spanish Colonial Revival mansion in Altadena, known for its pink exterior and featured in the TV series Hacks, was severely damaged by the Eaton Fire. Even though character Deborah Vance’s home base is Las Vegas, the L.A. mansion has been featured a couple of times throughout the series as her second home.

Keeler House

Completed by architect Ray Kappe in 1991, the striking Keeler house was destroyed by the Palisades fire. The New York Times offers this description of the home, “Cantilevered atop a steep hillside site and peering over the ocean, the residence typified Kappe’s bravery and intuitive craft. It unfolded down its site via a central stair lit by a long gabled skylight, connected to the scene below with outsize windows. Flanked by floating, staggered floors and oversize balconies, the ethereal property remained grounded through the heft of exposed redwood and smooth, thick concrete.”

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Pacific Palisades Business Block Building

Designated a Historic-Cultural Monument, the Pacific Palisades Business Block Building was destroyed by the Palisades fire. Designed by architect Clifton Nourse and dedicated in 1924, the Spanish Colonial Revival building was a landmark in the community. 

Park Planned Homes

Completed in 1948 by architect Gregory Ain, the Park Planned Homes comprised a tract of 28 houses in Altadena. These residences were celebrated for their modular design, utilizing 12′ x 16′ units that allowed for common finishes, hardware, and equipment. This approach not only streamlined construction but also promoted affordability, aligning with Ain’s commitment to providing modern, cost-effective housing solutions. The collaboration with landscape designer Garrett Eckbo ensured that each home was harmoniously integrated into the landscape, featuring private patios and thoughtful site planning that offered privacy and a connection to the natural surroundings.

Topanga Ranch Motel

The historic Topanga Ranch Motel, built in 1929 by William Randolph Hearst and located across from Topanga Beach, was destroyed by the Palisades Fire. The retro motel once housed PCH construction workers and was a popular filming location. Plans had been in the works to restore 20 of its cabins for public rental.

Will Rogers State Historic Park Structures

The Palisades Fire destroyed historic homes and buildings at Will Rogers State Historic Park. Will Rogers’ house and the stables were among the structures lost. Park staff had safely evacuated the horses and removed some of the exhibited memorabilia before the destruction. 

Zane Grey Estate

Designed by Myron Hunt and Elmer Grey in 1907, the Mediterranean Revival style house was once celebrated as the first fireproof home in Altadena, thanks to the fact that it was built of reinforced concrete. It was originally built for Chicago inventor and businessman Arthur Woodward, who then sold it to bestselling novelist Zane Grey in 1920. The home was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.