Los Angeles isn’t just a city—it’s an architectural playground where history, fantasy, and modernity all cohabitate on palm-lined streets. Whether you're house hunting, casually cruising, or just trying to impress someone at a dinner party, knowing your Tudors from your Googie can elevate your L.A. cred faster than you can say “zoning variance.”
So grab your (metaphorical) binoculars—we’re going on an Architectural Safari through four of LA’s most iconic residential styles.
The Spanish Revival: Red Tiles & Romance
Where to Spot It: Hancock Park, Westwood, Beverly Grove
You’ll know you’ve encountered a Spanish Revival when you see:
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Clay tile roofs that look like they’ve been sunbathing since the 1920s
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White stucco walls that practically glow at golden hour
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Wrought iron balconies, arched doorways, and colorful tile detailing
Spanish homes are the OG heartthrobs of LA real estate. Inspired by early California missions and Mediterranean villas, they exude warmth, character, and a hint of flamenco. Inside, you’ll often find original hardwood floors, coved ceilings, and even vintage tiled staircases that feel like a telenovela waiting to happen.
Real Estate Tip: These homes are hot—literally and figuratively. Modern insulation upgrades are a must if you're planning to buy.
Tudor: The Fairytale Fortress
Where to Spot It: Windsor Square, Pasadena, Beverly Hills
Spotted a house that looks like it belongs to an English duke (or a Disney villain)? That’s a Tudor.
Features include:
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Steeply pitched gable roofs
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Leaded glass windows that whisper “olde worlde”
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Half-timbered façades and charming chimneys
Tudor homes are storybook stunners. They feel like they were plucked straight from the English countryside and plopped into LA for dramatic flair. Think warm wood interiors, cozy nooks, and maybe even a secret passageway or two.
Real Estate Tip: Buyers love these for their craftsmanship and curb appeal—but be prepared for quirky floor plans and a love-hate relationship with natural light.
Googie: The Space-Age Showstopper
Where to Spot It: Look around Palm Springs-adjacent areas, some hidden gems in Studio City and the Valley
Yes, it’s pronounced “GOO-gee.” And yes, it’s as fun as it sounds.
Googie is not subtle. It’s atomic age optimism with a side of neon.
Features:
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Upswept roofs and crazy angles
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Starburst and boomerang motifs
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Flying saucer carports and exposed concrete
While more often seen in coffee shops and diners (hi, Norms), a handful of Googie-inspired homes exist, and they’re architectural unicorns. If you find one, hold onto it like a collector’s item.
Real Estate Tip: These are rare birds. If you find a true Googie home, get an architecture historian, a preservationist, and possibly a spacecraft engineer involved.
Mid-Century Modern: Minimalism Meets Mad Men
Where to Spot It: Pacific Palisades, the Hollywood Hills, Brentwood, and pockets of the Valley
Mid-century homes are the cool kids of the architecture world—effortless, sleek, and always wearing sunglasses.
Key elements:
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Clean lines, flat planes, open floor plans
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Indoor-outdoor flow (hello, sliding glass walls)
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Post-and-beam construction and natural materials
These homes are designed to breathe—and to make your Eames chair feel right at home. They're the spiritual home of LA’s laid-back glamour.
Real Estate Tip: Original condition is gold. But if it's been flipped with barn doors and gray vinyl, you’re legally allowed to be offended.
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Style Spirit Animal?
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Are you a romantic at heart? Go Spanish.
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Want to live like royalty? Tudor’s your jam.
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Craving Jetsons meets James Bond? Hunt for Googie.
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Prefer martinis at 5 and a minimalist vibe? Mid-century is calling.
Whichever architectural species speaks to you, Los Angeles has a habitat to match. And if you’re ready to go on a real-life home safari, let us guide you—no pith helmet required.
Ready to explore LA’s architectural wilds?
Reach out to our team and let’s go house hunting—binoculars optional, taste required.
