The Simon House, Benno Fischer, 1962

Benno Fischer was a Southern California architect known for his thoughtful approach to Mid Century Modern residential design. Born in Poland in the early twentieth century, Fischer was a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to the United States after enduring the profound dislocation and trauma of World War II. These early experiences shaped his worldview and informed a deep sensitivity to space, light, and the emotional impact of the built environment.

After settling in California, Fischer began his architectural career during the postwar housing boom, working alongside Richard Neutra. Through this close professional relationship, Fischer absorbed principles centered on human scale, health, and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor space, values that would strongly inform his own work.

His homes are defined by clean horizontal lines, generous glazing, open floor plans, and strong indoor outdoor connections. Often using post and beam construction, Fischer designed residences that sit quietly within their sites, framing views and encouraging calm movement through space.

This home has been carefully restored by Matt Schwartz, whose deep respect for Fischer’s original vision guided every decision throughout the process. Through years of dedicated work and a true labor of love, the house has been brought back to its original glory while remaining relevant for contemporary living.

Examples of Fischer’s work can be found throughout Southern California, where a number of his single family homes remain intact or have been sensitively restored.