AKA: Korth, Theodore, House, Piedmont, CA

Structure Type: built works - dwellings - houses

Designers: Chermayeff and Mayhew, Associated Architects (firm); Serge Ivan Chermayeff (architect); Clarence William Whitehead Mayhew (architect)

Dates: constructed 1941-1942

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330 Hampton Road
Piedmont, CA 94611-3554

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The internationally-known architect, Serge Chermayeff designed this house in association with Mayhew. Mayhew was quoted in the Architectural Forum, 01/1946, on the design of this house: "'I reasoned that two heads would do a better job in designing a house for my wife than just one. I tried the idea out on several of my architect friends, all of whom thought I was crazy. Their reaction convinced me that the idea was sound.' So saying famed California architect Clarence Mayhew asked equally famed British architect, Serge Chermayeff to collaborate in the design of a home for Mrs. Mayhew." (p. 117) The article continued: "The program established by the collaborators was that the house be separately zoned for the activities of adults and children, so that each could function independently. Also, it was desired that all living and sleeping rooms face south, with large glazed walls to admit view and sunshine. As much private garden space as possible was requested for the pleasure of indoor-outdoor living." (p.117)

Architect's own house. The house occupied a 90 x 225 foot lot on the site of a former estate garden. The site was dotted with mature live oak trees. The architects planned the front door canopy to encircle one of the trees.

PCAD id: 10242