The Lowe House, built in 1933-34, marked a pivotal moment in the career of modernist architect Harwell H. Harris. Nestled in the serene community of Altadena, California, the house was a fusion of Japanese design principles and classic ranch-home style, created for Harris’s friend Pauline Lowe, a buyer for the prestigious Bullocks Wilshire department store. This project was Harris’s first independent commission after leaving the tutelage of Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler, two giants of modernist architecture.
Harris brought a sculptor’s sensibility to the Lowe House, a reflection of his early artistic aspirations before architecture captured his imagination during a visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House. This home that stood at 596 Punahou Street, Altadena CA, seamlessly blended simplicity, functionality, and elegance, and quickly established Harris as a rising star in the architectural world. Its innovative design garnered critical acclaim, including a prize in the annual Small House design competition and a feature in the October 1935 issue of House Beautiful magazine.
The Design
The Lowe House was a striking testament to Harris’s ability to harmonize natural elements with modernist ideals. Its Japanese influences were evident in its simplicity and integration with the landscape, while its ranch-home sensibilities ensured practicality and comfort. Harris designed the house with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, a hallmark of California modernism. Each bedroom extended into small, wood-walled enclosures, allowing residents to sleep privately under the stars—an innovative touch that reflected Harris’s commitment to blending architecture with nature.
The use of natural wood and an open floor plan contributed to the home’s warmth and accessibility. The structure’s clean lines and thoughtful spatial arrangements created a sense of tranquility and balance, echoing the Japanese design ethos. Harris’s meticulous attention to detail ensured that the Lowe House was not just a residence but a living, breathing work of art.
Stories of the Lowe House
Pauline Lowe’s role as a buyer for Bullocks Wilshire brought a sophisticated sensibility to the collaboration with Harris. Her appreciation for design and fashion was reflected in the home’s tasteful details, from its minimalist interiors to its harmonious connection with the surrounding environment. The Lowe House became a gathering space for creative minds, embodying the spirit of innovation that defined the era.
For Harris, the Lowe House was a deeply personal project. It was his first opportunity to fully realize his architectural vision outside the shadow of his mentors, Neutra and Schindler. The success of this home not only launched his independent career but also set the stage for a lifetime of architectural excellence.
The Lowe House Today
The Lowe House, once a celebrated example of early California modernism, reflected Harwell H. Harris’s pioneering spirit and artistic integrity. Tragically, this architectural gem was lost to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, marking an irreplaceable void in the legacy of mid-century modern design.
Though the home no longer stands, its influence endures as a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful architecture to connect people with their environment and each other. The Lowe House remains a milestone in Harris’s career and a symbol of the transformative potential of modernist design, inspiring architects and admirers alike to reimagine the spaces we call home. Its history—from its innovative outdoor sleeping enclosures to its recognition in national publications—ensures that its impact on architectural achievement will not be forgotten, even as we mourn its physical loss.
How You Can Help
To support those impacted by the wildfires, consider donating to organizations providing relief and recovery assistance. Groups like the Red Cross, the Humane Society, and the California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund are actively working to aid affected communities. Your contributions can make a meaningful difference in helping rebuild lives and preserve California’s cultural heritage.