Chris Pratt Criticised For Destroying Historic 1950s House to Build Mansion

Criticism has been aimed at Chris Pratt over demolishing a notable mid-century property to make room for his new residence.

Last year, Pratt, alongside his wife Katherine Schwarzenegger, acquired the 1950 Zimmerman house located in the Brentwood neighbourhood of Los Angeles. Designed by Craig Ellwood, the house was a significant architectural piece and was purchased by the couple for a reported $12.5 million. Previously, it had been the primary residence of Hilda Rolfe, the widow of Sam Rolfe, co-creator of ‘The Man From U.N.C.L.E.’

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However, the property has now been cleared to pave the way for Pratt’s envisioned single-story modern farmhouse spanning 15,000 square feet. Plans for the new abode include a secondary unit, a pool, and a three-car garage. Architect Ken Ungar, known for his expertise in crafting high-end modern farmhouse-style properties, has been entrusted with the design, as reported by Architectural Digest.

The Eichler Network, an outlet covering news and developments in mid-century Californian homes, voiced disapproval of the project. Adriene Biondo, a writer for the network, expressed concerns about the trend of demolishing architectural gems in favour of new constructions. Biondo suggested that designating the Zimmerman house as a historic cultural monument might have provided protection or allowed for a delay in its demolition. However, such appeals for preservation seemed to have been disregarded.

The Los Angeles Conservancy, dedicated to safeguarding historic buildings, echoed these sentiments and had previously warned about the impending demolition. They highlighted the Zimmerman house as a remarkably well-preserved example of modernist design from its era.

Yet, despite these concerns, the demolition proceeded, sparking further debate about the balance between progress and preservation of architectural heritage.