by Architectural Observer | Apr 28, 2021 | Blog, Observations
The brainchild of designer/developer Jean Vandruff, these fairy-tale-inspired ranch houses were an instant hit in Southern California when first introduced by him and his brother Shannon in 1955. Sometimes referred to as “storybook ranches”, these houses...
by Architectural Observer | Apr 20, 2021 | Blog, Projects
As you last remember, the kitchen of the Keys House was being relieved of decades of accumulated indignities (including carpeting, a drop ceiling and wall paneling). Similar work has been done in the bathroom and the north and south parlors — allowing for new...
by Architectural Observer | Dec 14, 2020 | Blog, Observations
Bartlesville, Oklahoma, is fortunate to have eight houses by Bruce Goff in its vicinity; the Collins house is among them. Commissioned by Russell Collins and built in 1959, the house survives today in remarkably near-original condition. Its recent sale allowed me to...
by Architectural Observer | Dec 11, 2020 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses, Observations
If the old saying “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” is true, then Jud Yoho should have been mighty flattered! Anyone who has spent any time poking around search engines looking for information on Craftsman bungalows has likely run across his...
by Architectural Observer | Dec 3, 2020 | Blog, Mail Order and Kit Houses
Among the first offerings by the Radford Architectural Company, Design No. 509 appeared in the company’s debut publication, “The Radford American homes : 100 house plans”, in 1903. Later marketed as Design No. 1509, the design was offered for many...
by Architectural Observer | Nov 19, 2020 | Blog, Projects
Work continues to progress at the Keys House project, even if somewhat sporadically. Finishes are being peeled back in some rooms, shedding more light on their original appearances. On the exterior, the north and south walls have been relieved of vinyl and are being...
