Richard & Dion Neutra VDL Studio & Residences: Modernism breathes in LA
Nestled in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, the Neutra VDL Studio & Residences (also known as the VDL House) stands as one of the most influential testaments to mid-century modern architecture. Designed originally by Richard Neutra in 1932, rebuilt (with his son Dion) in the mid-1960s after a devastating fire, the VDL House continues to inspire architects, historians, and lovers of design. It is more than a house—it’s a living laboratory in human-centered architecture.
History & Origins
The VDL House was originally commissioned in 1932 as the Van der Leeuw Research House thanks to a low-interest loan from Dutch industrialist C.H. van der Leeuw.
Neutra’s intent: to build a “research house”—a home that also houses his practice, but more importantly a space to experiment with how architecture could serve both psychological and biological needs. Space constraints, privacy, nature, light, views, and human comfort were central.
The site is modest: about a 60×70-foot lot across from the Silver Lake Reservoir. Neutra designed vertically where needed to open views toward the reservoir and the San Gabriel Mountains. In 1939-40, the Garden House was added—this T-shaped wing with courtyards and sliding walls reflects Neutra’s blurring of indoors and out.
In 1963, a fire destroyed most of the original house (VDL I), including archives and many design materials. Only the Garden House and basement survived. Neutra and his son Dion rebuilt (VDL II) between 1964-66 on the original foundation, preserving the envelope but introducing new material, spatial complexity, and innovations (sun louvers, solarium rooftop, reflecting pools, etc.)
Design Philosophy & Key Features
Biorealism: Neutra’s belief that architecture should respond to human biology and psychology: light, air, views, and nature all matter. The VDL House was conceived as a place that nurtures well-being.
Spatial Efficiency: Despite a small lot, the house feels expansive. Roof terraces, glass walls, reflective surfaces, and open courtyards create a sense of breathing space.
Connection to Nature: Views toward Silver Lake Reservoir and mountains; garden courtyards; sliding walls to let in air; elements such as water (reflecting pools) are used not just decoratively but to affect light, climate, and psychological impact.
Technological & Material Innovation: Use of glass, metal, new systems (for the time), sun louvers, water roofs. In its second incarnation, enhancements in materials and detailing reflect Neutra’s evolving practice.
In 1990, the Neutra family donated the house to Cal Poly Pomona, its College of Environmental Design now stewards the property.
It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016, and is on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance.
Restorations have been necessary: roofs, windows, garden, sun louvers, and maintaining materials that deteriorated over time. Funding and preservation remain ongoing challenges.
The house is open to the public for tours (typically Saturdays 11am-3pm) and serves as an educational resource for architecture students and the general public.