Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger recently came under fire for demolishing a historic home in Brentwood, California. The home, known as the Zimmerman House, was designed by renowned architect Craig Ellwood and completed in 1950. The couple purchased the property for over $12 million and tore it down to build a new farmhouse-style mansion. This decision upset many in the architectural preservation community due to the home’s historical significance and unique design.
The Zimmerman House was originally commissioned by Martin and Eva Zimmerman in 1949 and featured five bedrooms and three bathrooms on a sprawling 0.83-acre estate. The midcentury home was one of Ellwood’s earliest projects and is highly regarded in the architecture world. The property was sold twice in the past, but it remained intact until Pratt and Schwarzenegger acquired it. The couple’s decision to demolish the home sparked outrage and criticism from those who value architectural preservation.
In place of the Zimmerman House, Pratt and Schwarzenegger are constructing a two-story mansion designed by Ken Ungar, known for his modern farmhouse-style designs. The choice to replace the iconic midcentury home with a new structure has led to accusations of being insensitive “McMansion seekers.” Social media users expressed disappointment and frustration with the couple’s decision to tear down the historic property rather than preserving its architectural significance.
While Pratt and Schwarzenegger have not publicly commented on the controversy surrounding the demolition of the Zimmerman House, their actions have drawn widespread condemnation. Many individuals, including fans, architectural enthusiasts, and preservationists, have expressed their disappointment and disapproval online. The Los Angeles Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving historic places, emphasized the importance of respecting and maintaining the architectural heritage of older homes.
Erin Ellwood, daughter of architect Craig Ellwood, shared her perspective on the situation, noting that while she is not bitter about the demolition of the Zimmerman House, she would have preferred to see the property preserved and creatively enhanced rather than torn down. Ellwood acknowledged the sentimental value of the home as a time capsule of her father’s work but understood the desire for Pratt and Schwarzenegger to build a new residence that suited their preferences and lifestyle. Despite the controversy, Ellwood expressed understanding of the couple’s desire to be near family and create a home that reflects their personal taste.
The demolition of the Zimmerman House has sparked a conversation about the balance between new development and historical preservation in the architectural community. While some see the destruction of the midcentury home as a loss for architectural heritage, others recognize the property owners’ rights to make decisions about their property. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful consideration and respect for architectural history when making decisions about the future of historic properties.
