John Lautner Silvertop: The Reiner-Burchill Residence, 1957-1976. Silvertop is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture, showcasing the collaborative vision between architect and client. The project was commissioned by industrialist and engineer Kenneth Reiner following an extensive search during which he interviewed 40 architects before finding Lautner. Their partnership lasted almost a decade highlighting Reiner’s hands-on involvement in the design process. He displayed a keen interest in every detail, even going as far as to have his own company create custom components to meet the innovative plans for the house. This dedication to bespoke craftsmanship meant that no stock materials were used, resulting in a unique architectural marvel tailored precisely to its environment and the desires of its visionary client.

The grand and ambitious vision behind Silvertop was brought to life in a stunning manner, but it came with a heavy cost for its original client, Kenneth Reiner. Reports indicate that the extensive resources and financial commitments needed to realize Lautner’s innovative designs placed significant strain on Reiner’s finances. Despite his unwavering dedication to the project and close collaboration with Lautner, he never had the chance to experience Silvertop as a home, becoming financially insolvent.

The breathtaking site of Silvertop is an essential element of its overarching architectural narrative. Spanning across six lots, it offers an unparalleled 360-degree vantage point. This exceptional location presents stunning views, including a sweeping panorama of downtown Los Angeles as a dynamic backdrop to the structure.

The most remarkable aspect of the residence is the awe-inspiring perspective of the Silver Lake reservoir, which inspired the name Silvertop. The seamless integration of the natural environment with the building’s design reflects Lautner’s philosophy, resulting in a harmonious relationship between the architecture and its surroundings. Each carefully positioned window and terrace frames extraordinary views, inviting the beauty of the landscape into the living spaces and establishing a captivating dialogue between nature and architecture.

Silvertop: The Reiner-Burchill Residence is often praised as a habitable sculpture – an extraordinary embodiment of architectural creativity that seems to gracefully levitate from its hilltop perch overlooking the Silver Lake reservoir. The design features a dynamic interplay of concave and convex curves creating a sense of fluidity and grace. At the heart of the structure and supported by four robust columns lives a billowing concrete vault stretching over the expansive living room. This defining feature provides structural integrity and enhances the sense of openness within the space. On either end, bowed brick walls discreetly house the compact kitchen and the bedroom wing. In harmony with the architectural ensemble, an elliptical infinity pool mirrors the graceful lines of the roof vault, resulting in a seamless connection between the built environment and the picturesque landscape. Access to the home is facilitated by a steep drive, which is cantilevered from the hillside, wrapping around the property and leading visitors to a guest house and a tennis court that seemingly hover in mid-air. This feature further elevates the experience of this architectural marvel created by John Lautner.

Interested in seeing the John Lautner Silvertop, The Reiner-Burchill Residence contact us at 323-745-1160 for a private showing. For more Los Angeles homes for sale, email livebeyond@beyondshelter.com. Considering selling your home… Beyond Shelter would love the opportunity to work with you. Through our personalized Ready. Set. Show. Plan, we will prepare your home for showtime and maximize its value in the marketplace. Find out more about our Seller experience here.

SOLD – Listing courtesy of Crosby Doe, Crosby Doe Associates, Inc.