LA’s Thorgusen Compound

Two of LA’s best mid-century homes have sold. Both designed by architect Robert Thorgusen, the homes were quite different and years ahead of most 1950s-era modern homes. And even today, still ahead of almost anything from current architects. The two neighboring properties, nicknamed the Thorgusen Compound, are located in the city’s Hollywood Hills, set within a garden forest of mature trees and plantings by master landscape architect Garrett Eckbo. The homes, built between 1953 and ‘57 for Thorgusen and his wife, were originally known as “The Forest” and “The Jewell Box.” They recently sold to two separate buyers for a total of $8.9 million.

Thorgusen, who trained at the University of Southern California School of Architecture, was known for his unique mid-century designs, innovative rooflines, Japanese influence, and use of organic materials such as stone, wood, and water, complemented by concrete, steel, and glass. The Forest is the smaller home with a pie-pan roof, two bedrooms, and 2,326 square feet. The Jewell Box has three bedrooms with 4,100 square feet. They share a private driveway and a unique design with post-and-beam construction, dramatic lighting, and Thorgusen’s ability to create an unforgettable architectural showcase that still excites some 70 years later.

The longtime Thorgusen Compound sellers are shock-rock legend and cult horror filmmaker Rob Zombie and his wife, actress Sheri Moon Zombie.

The Thorgusen Compound selling agents are Rick Tyberg, Lauren Duffy, and Abigail Gutwein at Douglas Elliman. Photos by Gavin Cater