An Icon of Mid-Century Modernism
The Stahl House, also known as Case Study House #22, stands as one of the most celebrated achievements of mid-century modern design. This 2,200-square-foot architectural landmark was commissioned in 1959 by Buck and Carlotta Stahl, who selected visionary modernist Pierre Koenig to realize their dream on a dramatic hillside lot in the Hollywood Hills. As part of the groundbreaking Case Study Houses program by Arts & Architecture magazine, the home served as an experimental model testing new materials, construction techniques, and ideas about postwar living.
Pierre Koenig’s Vision Brought to Life
The technical innovation and minimalist clarity that Pierre Koenig brought to the Stahl House helped define the essence of California modernism. Its open, transparent design perfectly integrated with the surrounding landscape and embodied a new way of living centered on lightness, connection to the environment and forward-looking optimism. Built in 1960 and held by the Stahl family for over six decades, Case Study House #22 is now on the market for the first time, offering a rare opportunity to experience one of Koenig’s most extraordinary works.
A Floating Pavilion Above Los Angeles
The home’s daring cantilevered glass-and-steel structure appears to float above Los Angeles, mirroring the geometry of the city grid below. Widely regarded as one of the most recognizable homes in the world, the Stahl House continues to captivate architects, designers and admirers of modernist architecture. Set on nearly a third of an acre at the end of a gated drive, the International-style pavilion is secured by a high steel wall and accessed by a concrete footbridge that passes over the pool. Inside, the meticulously preserved L-shaped layout features a refined palette of stone, tile and wood, complemented by exposed-beam and paneled ceilings.
Refined Living Spaces with Timeless Appeal
The main living areas, anchored by a freestanding natural rock fireplace and flanked by a sculptural fire pit, flow seamlessly from living to dining to an updated kitchen outfitted with plywood cabinetry and steel-legged appliances. Floor-to-ceiling walls of glass reinforce the sensation that Case Study House #22 is suspended above the city, dissolving boundaries between indoors and out. The two bedrooms are thoughtfully secluded in a separate wing, with the primary suite positioned behind the kitchen for privacy. Outdoors, a pool and raised spa sit beside a wraparound terrace shaded by deep eaves, creating a tranquil retreat framed by cinematic views. With its visionary design, enduring legacy and unmatched cultural influence, the Stahl House remains the quintessential expression of Pierre Koenig’s architectural brilliance and the radical ambition of the Case Study Houses program. Listed by William Baker, The Agency.
The main living areas, anchored by a freestanding natural rock fireplace and flanked by a sculptural fire pit, flow seamlessly from living to dining to an updated kitchen outfitted with plywood cabinetry and steel-legged appliances. Floor-to-ceiling walls of glass reinforce the sensation that Case Study House #22 is suspended above the city, dissolving boundaries between indoors and out. The two bedrooms are thoughtfully secluded in a separate wing, with the primary suite positioned behind the kitchen for privacy. Outdoors, a pool and raised spa sit beside a wraparound terrace shaded by deep eaves, creating a tranquil retreat framed by cinematic views. With its visionary design, enduring legacy and unmatched cultural influence, the Stahl House remains the quintessential expression of Pierre Koenig’s architectural brilliance and the radical ambition of the Case Study Houses program. Listed by William Baker, The Agency.
Interested in the Stahl House, Case Study House #22 by Pierre Koenig, contact us at 323-745-1160 for a private showing or for more information email livebeyond@beyondshelter.com. Find more Los Angeles Mid Century Modern houses on our map search. If you’re ready to sell your home, Beyond Shelter is here to partner 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.
FAQ's | IN THE DETAILS – THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER
What makes the Stahl House, also known as Case Study House #22, an icon of mid-century modern architecture?
The Stahl House, or Case Study House #22, is celebrated for its daring cantilevered glass-and-steel design by architect Pierre Koenig. Built as part of the Case Study Houses program, it exemplifies California modernism with its minimalist layout, floor-to-ceiling glass walls and a seamless connection to the landscape. Its floating appearance above the Los Angeles skyline has made it one of the most recognizable and photographed homes in the world.
How did Pierre Koenig influence the design and legacy of the Stahl House?
Pierre Koenig shaped the Stahl House into a groundbreaking expression of modern living through his innovative use of industrial materials, structural boldness and emphasis on transparency. His vision for Case Study House #22 introduced a new architectural language defined by lightness, efficiency and openness. Today, the home is widely considered one of Koenig’s most important works and a defining symbol of the Case Study Houses program.
What are the key design features found inside Case Study House #22?
Inside Case Study House #22, experience an L-shaped layout with stone, tile, and wood, exposed-beam ceilings and a minimalist interior. The living spaces are anchored by a freestanding natural rock fireplace and flow into an updated kitchen with plywood cabinetry and steel-legged appliances. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls create the signature floating effect, while the bedrooms occupy a secluded wing overlooking the pool, raised spa and wraparound terrace, hallmarks of the Stahl House aesthetic envisioned by Pierre Koenig.
