Open Space | The Basin Residence, Benton and Park 1959

Benton & Park, founded in 1956 by Wallace Benton and Donald Gene Park, were among the lesser-known but influential voices of postwar modernism in Los Angeles. Their practice thrived for just over a decade, yet they produced a number of striking homes throughout the San Fernando Valley. These residences embraced the ideals of the mid-century era: open layouts, glass walls that dissolved boundaries between indoors and out, and thoughtful siting that responded to the California light and terrain. Their designs often flew under the radar compared to those of Lautner or Neutra, but they captured the same spirit of experimentation and optimism that defined the period.

One of their Studio City houses recently gained new life when it was purchased by designer Daniel Krog. Recognizing the architectural significance of the home, Krog approached the project as both a restoration and a reinterpretation. His work involved upgrading the house for contemporary living—introducing modern systems and finishes—while carefully maintaining the mid-century vocabulary of clean lines, natural materials, and strong indoor-outdoor connections. This approach ensured the house remains authentic to its origins while also serving the needs of a present-day household.

Krog’s restoration underscores the lasting relevance of Benton & Park’s work. By bringing one of their Valley residences back to prominence, he highlights how thoughtful stewardship can preserve the essence of mid-century architecture while giving it renewed vitality. The project also serves as a reminder that beyond the better-known masters, firms like Benton & Park played a crucial role in shaping the everyday modernism of Los Angeles’ postwar neighborhoods—creating homes that were not only architecturally progressive but also deeply livable.