Last one, of this series. What I find interesting about the Club James is how it departs from John Lautner’s original spatial logic while still existing within the same architectural universe. Commissioned by @jamesfgoldstein in the early 2000s, it introduces a completely different program, one that is no longer domestic, but explicitly performative.
Unlike the Sheats–Goldstein Residence, where space dissolves toward the landscape, here the architecture turns inward. The environment is defined by artificial light, reflection, and controlled atmospheres rather than by the horizon.
What interests me is this shift: continuity is no longer about merging with nature, but about constructing an immersive interior condition. The space feels more scenographic, almost detached from site, yet still in dialogue with the house through material and triangular shapes.
Best feature? The tennis court on the rooftop, of course.
To this day I’m so grateful of the special opportunity they gave me that day. James, and her assistant Roberta, are amazing people. It wasn’t planned, I should’ve not been there, and still they allowed me to stay an hour with them, appreciating this incredible piece architecture.
Thank you so much!
#jamesgoldstein #clubjames #losangeles #architecture
And here we are with part 2. What struck me most about the lower level is how John Lautner doesn’t really design rooms—he designs a sequence. You move through a compressed space from the external staircase, with only a restricted glimpse of the landscape, and then, as soon as you enter the bedroom, the space opens wide toward the city. From that point on, it becomes difficult to tell where the interior actually ends.
Everything feels continuous: structure, furniture, enclosure… all working as a single system. And then small moments—like the pivoting metal chair, the floor extending into a sun-oriented deck, or the hidden glass sink embedded in the façade (a later addition by Lautner after @jamesfgoldstein acquired the house) stand out precisely because they don’t dissolve into the architecture.
It’s a space you don’t just look at: you read it through movement. A space that offers multiple, constantly shifting points of view toward both the house and the Los Angeles skyline.
#jamesgoldstein #sheatsgoldsteinresidence #architecture #losangeles
Probably the most epic experience I've had as an architect and a visitor - a day that's shot to the top of my LA highlights! Stumbled upon this insane private tour of my all-time favorite John Lautner villa, and I'm still reeling. Thanks to @jamesfgoldstein 's passion and forward thinking when it comes to renovating the house while respecting the original design, this 1961 masterpiece continues to shine as a Hollywood icon. Stay tuned for more pov goodness, I’ve got more to show 😉
#jamesgoldstein #architecture #johnlautner #losangeles #hollywood
