Wow. Look at the Sheats Apartments. This isn’t just a building. It’s a time capsule. A testament to mid-century modern design.
The Sheats Apartments also known as L’Horizon or The Treehouse stand proudly in Westwood. Completed in 1949 they were designed by the legendary John Lautner. He was a master. His vision was truly futuristic. Helen Taylor Sheats a Neo-Fauvist artist collaborated on the design. Her husband Paul Henry Sheats was a UCLA professor. They intended the apartments for students.
Each apartment is unique. Completely separate from the others. Each has its own terrace deck and garden space. Pretty amazing for student housing right? The apartments’ design is incredibly functional. Gebhard and Winter architectural experts praised this in their guidebook.
Despite their unique design the Sheats Apartments haven’t always been perfect. In 2004 Michael Dukakis a former presidential candidate called them a dump. That’s quite a harsh assessment. The buildings have had some issues. There have been problems with parking and even drug-related arrests nearby.
But the Sheats Apartments are far more than just a place to live. On June 21 1988 the City of Los Angeles recognized its significance. They designated it a Historic-Cultural Monument. The building’s unique architectural style helped preserve it. That’s why we’re here today to admire its beauty. A true Los Angeles landmark. An enduring example of mid-century modern architecture. One of Lautner’s best.