Modernist Architecture: The Lillie Residence

Carmen and Todd in their dining room. Lillie Residence by Lloyd Ruocco. Photo ©Darren Bradley

Architect Lloyd Ruocco left an enduring mark on San Diego, through his unobtrusive architecture that seems to disappear into the surrounding environment. There are many examples throughout the county - and especially in the east around Mt. Helix. The Lillie Residence is the nicest example of Ruocco's work that I've ever seen.

Photo ©Darren Bradley

Of course, that is due in no small part to the efforts of the owners, Architect Carmen Pauli et landscape architect Todd Pitman, who have spent years restoring the home to its original state.

Photo ©Darren Bradley

The home is a classic example of Ruocco's modernist design philosophy, which was more about the site and the environment than the structure itself. Practicality and honest materials are the most important. The architects homes are modular, built in 8-ft sections that can be easily assembled and disassembled. They also include walls of glass and are generally built of redwood. They exude the classic, more relaxed and organic sort of West Coast modernism that evolved from the European international modernist style.

Photo ©Darren Bradley

Photo ©Darren Bradley

And indeed, the house is extremely warm and comfortable. Anyone who says that modernism is cold needs to spend some time here. I have, and didn't want to leave (Carmen and Todd are friends and we spent a great evening and dinner the evening I was here taking these photos).

Photo ©Darren Bradley

Alas, I was only here with my camera during an evening. And I was enjoying myself so much I didn't take many photos. But I do want to come back some morning to grab some additional photos, when the light is streaming into the living room (Yes, Todd, like that photo you posted in Instagram!).

Anyway, we all owe Carmen and Todd a debt of gratitude for their labour of love, as well as everything they do for the local community to promote modernism. Plus, they're really, really nice people. In fact, it's the only thing that keeps me from being really jealous of their place...