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This mid-century home in Rancho Palos Verdes, designed by architect Joseph O. Michell in 1960, remains one of the most compelling examples of California modernism. Though Michell is not widely known, his self-designed residence has earned recognition for its architectural clarity, site-specific planning, and remarkable state of preservation.
Joseph O. Michell studied architecture at the University of Southern California after beginning at UCLA. He worked in Los Angeles during the post-war boom of modernist residential design. Like many of his peers, Michell embraced the ideals of open-plan living, indoor-outdoor flow, and structural honesty. His Rancho Palos Verdes home—built for his own family—is the best-known example of his work.
Sited on a ridge with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Los Angeles, and the hills beyond, the house is a textbook mid-century modern home. Glass walls open to terraces and landscaped gardens, blurring the boundary between inside and out. The architecture makes the most of its setting, offering both openness and shelter.
Built with post-and-beam construction, the structure reveals its rhythm in every room. A wide wooden trellis shades the façade, while deep overhangs protect interior spaces from harsh light. The living room is anchored by a dramatic floating fireplace, constructed from a repurposed metal culvert pipe. Its terrazzo base, inlaid with abalone shell, is one of many handcrafted features Michell designed himself.
The materials reflect the period’s honest approach to construction: exposed aggregate concrete floors, bouquet canyon stone walls, and mosaic tiles are used throughout. The house also features floating cabinetry, radiant floor heating, and original light fixtures—elements that point to Michell’s deep involvement in both the architecture and the detailing.
Though not large, this mid-century home in Rancho Palos Verdes feels expansive. The floorplan is efficient and carefully resolved. Rooms are positioned for privacy and light, while shared areas connect effortlessly to outdoor spaces. It’s a family home designed with precision and care.
When the home was placed on the market in 2024, it drew attention for its level of preservation. Much of Michell’s original vision remains intact. Today, the house stands as a rare, authentic piece of Southern California’s architectural history—a mid-century gem that reflects both the spirit of the time and the personal touch of its architect.
For anyone exploring mid-century modern architecture on the West Coast, Michell’s Rancho Palos Verdes home is a striking reminder that even lesser-known architects contributed meaningfully to the legacy of modern design.
