Iconic Beverly Hills Residence of Greta Magnussun-Grossman

Last week, I was invited to attend a house tour at the iconic 1948 residence of Greta Magnussun-Grossman on behalf of interior designer and furniture designer, Lauren Rottet of Rottet Studio. The iconic mid-century Beverly Hills residence was built in 1948. Thoughtful renovations have seamlessly updated the house for today's modern lifestyle, while staying true to its architectural spirit and restrained scale. The combination of the old and the new, the signature building designed by Grossman and the presentation of some of the stylish furniture pieces from Lauren, made the entire evening an inspirational experience.

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Grossman was one of the leading figures and few female designers that played an integral role in Los Angeles' modern movement. She was the first female furniture designer who won the Swedish Society of Industrial Design’s Furniture Design award [1]. Her lamp designs for Barker Brothers were among the first lamps applied bullet shaped, directional shades and flexible linkages [2]. These elements are still used in current modern style lamp design. She was also an excellent interior designer and architect, famous for her fourteen projects in Los Angeles. Many of the houses in the projects were built on difficult hillsides that needed stilts and had the size under 1500 feets. Furthermore, she taught courses at UCLA and at the Art Center in Pasadena [3].

Grossman has had an impact in architectural history and it so it was quite fortunate to be able to be hosted by Lauren for a personal home tour!

Sitting Nook (the former study of Greta Magnusson-Grossman)

One of my favorite rooms when entering the home, is the cozy sitting nook above. Currently, it features the bent metal cocktail table and metal & wood float chair from the Rottet Collection.

Above is a landing with impressive views toward Century City. On display is Lauren’s dichroic table made from glass and stainless steel has a geometrical and minimal design. This glass table can reflect light and demonstrate different colors, which makes it a perfect piece for this location.

The bedroom also has impressive views seen directly from bed and an elegant and refined rattan settee. The room exhibits the match of mid-century modern style and today’s modern style.

Thank you to my Lauren for hosting us for this great tour and evening!

[1] “Greta Magnusson-Grossman”, Wikipedia, https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greta_Magnusson-Grossman
[2] “Greta Magnusson Grossman.” R & Company, 31 Mar. 2020, www.r-and-company.com/designers/greta-magnusson-grossman/.
[3] “Los Angeles Conservancy.” Greta Grossman | Los Angeles Conservancy, www.laconservancy.org/architects/greta-grossman.