In the heart of Santa Monica’s Ocean Park neighborhood stands a largely unknown display of architectural significance. Known as the Hillcrest Apartments, this six-unit residential complex is one of Frank Gehry’s first completed projects. The building also served as his home for fifteen years. Completed in 1962, this property offers a glimpse into Gehry’s early design instincts before his radical shift toward deconstructivism. Priced at $3,500,000, 2807 Highland Ave, Santa Monica, is listed by Tim Byrne at Compass.
At the time of its construction, Gehry was still firmly grounded in a modernist approach. This complex was constructed long before the Walt Disney Concert Hall or any of his other metallic, sculptural structures. However, Hillcrest shows early signs of his undeniable avant-garde vision. The building’s geometry is irregular without being chaotic.
An off-kilter roofline and dramatic second-floor extensions bring movement to what would otherwise be a straightforward apartment block. Though restrained compared to Gehry’s later work, the design still challenges typical midcentury multifamily housing with a variety of visible details.
What’s most striking, perhaps, is how Gehry handled daylight. Rather than relying on a single orientation, each apartment receives sunlight from multiple directions. Frances Anderton, former host of DnA: Design and Architecture and current resident of the building, noted in a 2019 interview with Hunker.com that Gehry presented a unique ability to fill the space with natural light in a way that feels inviting rather than overwhelming.
Inside, the layout is practical but not plain – a direct reflection of the era’s architectural approach. The building includes a combination of one- and two-bedroom units, all with a sense of openness and a quintessential connection to the outside. The second-floor apartments are accessed through atrium-style entries that act as both transitional spaces and sources of additional natural light. Interiors feature working fireplaces and a minimalist aesthetic that still feels relevant today.
While the bones of the building remain original, many of its amenities have been modernized. Electrical and plumbing upgrades have brought the property up to date, and the structure now supports contemporary conveniences like electric vehicle chargers and on-site laundry. A large storage area also offers the potential to be converted into a small additional unit.
The complex includes practical touches like covered parking as well as storage lockers for tenants. A former sauna has been reimagined as bicycle storage, a sign of the neighborhood’s convenience and quaint surroundings.
Hillcrest Apartments may not announce itself as loudly as Gehry’s later landmarks, but its timeless innovations and enduring livability make it a noteworthy example of his early career. More than 60 years later, the building continues to act as a quiet exhibition of architectural excellence.
Listing: 2807 Highland Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90405 [Compass]
