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Period photo by Charles Schneider of the Russell Forester Residence. Much of the furniture and objects seen in the photo can be viewed in person at the exhibition.  La Jolla (pronounced "La Hoya" for the non locals and non-hispanically inclined) is a small, exclusive resort town just north of downtown San Diego. As far as architecture goes, it's long been known for its late 19th and early 20th century traditional, craftsman-style beach cottages. But La Jolla was also fertile ground for modernism beginning even in the 1920s. The post-war period was an especially prolific time in La Jolla, and a small group of architects, artists, and craftsmen made a significant impact on the community with their contributions. These contributions have been largely overlooked until now.  Russell Forester's Ae'gri Som'nia sculpture, with White Form by Lynn Fayman just to the left of that. Photo ©Darren Bradley The La Jolla Historical Society has begun to focus on the modernist...

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 ...