You stand before a facade that challenges the street with its brooding, "cave-like" presence. Looming over Franklin Avenue in Los Feliz, the John Sowden House—often called the "Jaws House" for its sharp ridges and lines that resemble the gaping mouth of a great white shark—commands your attention with its striking Mayan revival architecture. Designed by Lloyd Wright, the eldest son of Frank Lloyd Wright, this 1926 residence is celebrated as the apogee of his residential work, featuring intricate masonry and an atmosphere described as an otherworldly apparition.
Experience the Mystery of Mayan Revival
The house offers a sensory journey through unique architectural history. You will notice:
- The distinctive use of ornamented concrete textile blocks that decorate both the exterior and portions of the interior walls.
- A transition from the public street into a private, "tomb-like" atmosphere as you pass through sculpted copper gates.
- A narrow, tomb-like staircase that leads you upward into the residence.
- A central courtyard measuring 22' x 68', which serves as the heart of the home where all rooms open via a connecting corridor.
Explore Layers of Film and Folklore
Beyond its architectural merit, the house is steeped in cultural layers that you can trace through its history:
- The cinematic legacy of the property, which served as a filming location for scenes in L.A. Confidential and The Aviator, as well as appearances in reality television and music videos.
- The local lore surrounding its ownership by Dr. George Hodel between 1945 and 1950, a period that has sparked various theories regarding the house's history during the mid-century.
Capture the Architectural Detail
To make the most of your visit to this historic landmark, focus on these specific elements:
- The Facade: Observe how the "quasi-Mayan" style and heavy masonry create a stark contrast with the surrounding Los Feliz neighborhood.
- The Courtyard: Note the layout where rooms radiate from the central space; while the original water organs were lost to an earthquake in the 1930s, the courtyard remains the structural core of the design.
After exploring the unique textures of the Sowden House, you can venture into the broader Hollywood area to see more landmarks such as the Hollywood Wax Museum, the Museum of Death, or visit the nearby Whitley Heights Historic District.
Begin planning your visit to Los Feliz to experience this striking example of Lloyd Wright’s vision firsthand.