The Grant Residence, Jo Paul Rognstad , 1952

We return to the City of Claremont for another hidden gem, a modernist home originally designed by Jo Paul Rognstad in 1952. Tucked quietly within the neighborhood, the residence stands as a thoughtful example of postwar Southern California modernism with blending simplicity, warmth, and a deep connection to its surrounding landscape. We sat down with Mark and Laurel, both accomplished architects, as they shared the story of how they came to acquire the home and the responsibility they felt in preserving its architectural integrity while adapting it for modern living.

Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the challenges of restoration, the careful decisions behind each update, and the balance between honoring the original design while thoughtfully evolving the space over time. They also opened up about one of the home’s most difficult chapters: losing the original studio after fallen trees caused significant damage. Rather than walk away from its history, they chose to rebuild the studio to its former glory while introducing modern improvements that allow the space to continue serving future generations. Their story is one of stewardship, resilience, and a deep respect for architecture and place.