LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Orinda homeowner seeks historical landmark status for Neutra home


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The Orinda City Council May 7 took the next step toward designating the Nelson House, 511 Miner Road, as a city historical landmark. The structure features a distinct 1950s design by architect Richard Neutra, known for his geometric but airy structures that symbolized a west coast variation on the mid-century modern residence.

The home is a key remnant of a critical time in the history of Orinda, according to the city planning department, when many houses of this modernist style were constructed around the city. The structure is one of only 13 remaining Neutra-designed buildings in the Bay Area, and includes many distinct features this architect was known for.

"This is something I wanted to do, especially considering the destruction of a Neutra house in San Francisco," said owner S.B. Master.

The council plans to adopt the historical landmark ordinance at its May 21 meeting.