Fall Salon in Architectural Masterpiece

Our annual Salon fundraiser will take place in a masterpiece by a master architect, the home of Susan Disney Lord and Scott Lord in Santa Monica. Enjoy wine and delectable hors d’ouevres plus a brief talk by Dr. Ken Breisch, Associate Professor, University of Southern California’s School of Architecture.

The Masterpiece

Overlooking the Riviera Country Club, this stunning Spanish Colonial Revival home was constructed in 1926 for Donald Armstrong and altered in 1934 for Irvin S. Cobb, author of many books and short stories, some of which were adapted for silent movies. In the 1930s, actress Bette Davis lived in the home, and photos of her are now displayed in the living room. This two-story residence was featured in the March 2006 issue of Architectural Digest, and displays many original handmade touches, such as terra cotta floor tiles incised by workmen’s fingers, hand-carved wood beams, wrought iron appointments, tiled wall murals, a tile-faced stairway, and a terra cotta-tiled roof.

The Master

During his profession as a Spanish and French teacher at Santa Monica High School, John Byers discovered his talent in architecture in 1919 while working as a translator between a homeowner and Mexican craftsmen who were constructing an adobe home in Brentwood. Inspired by the vernacular architecture of Latin America, Byers turned to architecture full-time in 1922. He revived adobe construction enhanced by authentic handmade materials which are also abundant in the Armstrong-Cobb house. He received his architect’s license in 1925 and remained a Santa Monica resident, enjoying a long and successful career. Many celebrities were among his clients, and many of his projects are landmarks today.

The Hosts

Susan Disney Lord and Scott Lord have been exemplary in their careful preservation and additions to the home, which include a new wing and a tiled courtyard in the spirit of Byers’ architecture. We thank them for graciously opening their home to us.

Tickets

$150 for Conservancy members; $175 for general public. Join or upgrade as a new $1000 Leadership Circle member and  receive two complimentary tickets.

Advance purchase by October 20th online or send a check to Santa Monica Conservancy, P.O. Box 653, Santa Monica, CA 90406. Please indicate the number of tickets desired and whether you are a Conservancy member, and include your address, email and a phone number. You will receive a confirmation of your purchase and the event location.