John Lautner stands as a monumental figure in American architecture, renowned for his大胆 and innovative designs that redefined mid-century modernism. As an apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright, Lautner carved his own unique path, creating breathtaking structures that seamlessly integrated with their environments and pushed the boundaries of architectural possibility. To ensure his visionary contributions are celebrated and studied for years to come, the John Lautner Foundation was established in 1996. This non-profit organization serves as the central hub for information and preservation efforts related to Lautner’s extraordinary body of work.
What is the John Lautner Foundation?
The John Lautner Foundation is dedicated to championing the architectural heritage of John Lautner. Founded after his death in 1994 by his daughter Karol Lautner Peterson, the foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a clear educational mission. Its primary goals are to raise awareness of Lautner’s architectural significance, facilitate research and scholarship, and actively participate in the preservation and maintenance of his iconic buildings. The foundation operates under the Employer Identification Number 95-4629545, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.
A cornerstone of the Foundation’s work is its partnership with the Getty Special Collections. This agreement has placed Lautner’s extensive archives under the expert care of the Getty, ensuring the long-term preservation of his drawings, models, photographs, and documents. The Getty manages and maintains this vast collection, with usage guidelines carefully approved by the Foundation to balance accessibility with preservation. This collaboration makes the John Lautner archive a readily available resource for scholars, architects, and anyone fascinated by Lautner’s genius.
Leadership and Expertise: The Board of Directors
The John Lautner Foundation is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors, composed of individuals with deep connections to architecture, preservation, and John Lautner himself. These volunteers are committed to furthering the Foundation’s mission and ensuring the enduring impact of Lautner’s work.
Board of Directors of the John Lautner Foundation: From left to right, Judith Lautner, John English, Christopher Carr, Frank Escher, Karol Lautner Peterson, and Eleanor Schapa
The current Board includes:
- Judith Lautner, President, Treasurer: Daughter of John Lautner, Judith brings a lifetime of connection to his work, coupled with her experience as a former city planner and assistant to her father.
- Christopher Carr, Vice-President: With a background as a past Board Member and Director of the Taliesin Fellows Archives, Christopher contributes expertise in architectural archives and preservation.
- Frank Escher: As the former Administrator of the John Lautner archive and editor of the definitive publication John Lautner, Architect, Frank offers unparalleled knowledge of Lautner’s life and work.
- Eleanor Schrader, Secretary: An architectural and interior design historian and consultant, Eleanor shares her academic expertise and passion for architectural preservation. She also teaches at UCLA Extension and Santa Monica College.
- John English: Based in Los Angeles, John is an architectural preservation consultant, bringing practical experience in preserving architectural landmarks.
The Foundation also honors the memory and contributions of Karol Lautner Peterson (deceased), the Honored Past President, and Duncan Nicholson (deceased), Honored Past Director, for their foundational roles in establishing and nurturing the organization.
The Wisdom of Experience: The Advisory Board
Complementing the Board of Directors is a distinguished Advisory Board, comprised of a diverse group of architects, designers, historians, and enthusiasts who lend their expertise and support to the Foundation’s endeavors.
| – Cheryl Berenfeld – Will Bruder – Barbara-Ann Campbell-Lange – Crosby Doe – Lord Norman Foster – Mitch Glazer – James Goldstein – Elizabeth Honnold Harris – Jan-Richard Kikkert – Kelly Lynch – Richard (Kip) Serafin – Howard Rodman | – Leonard Malin – James Morris – Oscar Rodolfo Munoz – June Perez – Tina Peterson – Robin Poirier – Joseph Rosa – Tycho Saariste – Julia Strickland – Julia Silliman – Dorothy Tomilson – Louis Wiehle – Melissa Metuscak – Trudi Sandmeier |
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The Foundation also gratefully acknowledges the contributions of Ann Friedberg, Martin Daoust, Bette Jane Cohen, and Eric Lloyd Wright as Honored past advisors.
Accessing the John Lautner Archive at the Getty
The John Lautner Archive at the Getty Museum Special Collections is a treasure trove for researchers and enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive collection offers unparalleled insight into Lautner’s creative process and architectural vision.
The archive encompasses an extensive range of materials, including:
- Drawings: Approximately 9,000 working drawings, 800 sketches, hundreds of renderings and presentation drawings, offering a detailed view of Lautner’s design development.
- Photographs: Thousands of construction and project photos, slides, and prints, documenting the realization of Lautner’s architectural visions.
- Project Files: Job and client files, structural calculations, and related documents, providing context and background for each project.
- Models: Approximately 20 architectural models, offering three-dimensional representations of Lautner’s designs.
- Bibliographical Material: A comprehensive collection of publications and articles related to Lautner’s work from 1940 to 1994.
- Correspondence: Professional and private correspondence, offering insights into Lautner’s relationships and professional life.
- Audio-Visual Materials: Film and exhibition reviews, lecture transcripts, interviews, and video and audio recordings, including the documentary film “Spirit of Architecture” by Bette Cohen.
To explore the archive and request copies or access materials, begin your search at the Getty Research Institute’s online catalog: http://primo.getty.edu/primo_library/libweb/action/dlDisplay.do?vid=GRI&afterPDS=true&institution=01GRI&docId=GETTY_ALMA21139321140001551.
Further information about borrowing materials from the Getty is available at: http://www.getty.edu/research/library/using/reproductions_permissions/index.html.
For items potentially not available at the Getty, the Foundation retains a supplementary collection. Requests for these items can be made using the Request form.
Supporting the John Lautner Foundation
The John Lautner Foundation relies on the generosity of individuals and organizations who share a passion for architecture and preservation. Donations of any size are gratefully accepted and play a vital role in supporting the Foundation’s ongoing work. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
The Foundation’s income is derived from memberships, donations, events, grants, and other minor sources. These funds are carefully allocated to cover event costs, web hosting, legal and administrative expenses, preservation activities, and other essential operational needs. The Foundation prides itself on its efficient use of resources, with a “working board” of volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to minimize overhead and maximize impact.
You can contribute to the preservation of John Lautner’s legacy by:
- Making a Donation: Financial contributions of any amount are welcome and directly support the Foundation’s mission. Donations can be made online or by mail to the address below.
- Becoming a Member: Join a community of architecture enthusiasts and support the Foundation through membership. Visit the membership page to sign up and learn more about membership benefits.
Connect with the John Lautner Foundation
Stay informed about the John Lautner Foundation’s activities, events, and preservation efforts by connecting with them through mail or email:
By Mail:
The John Lautner Foundation
P.O. Box 116
Los Angeles, CA 90272
By Email:
Send comments and questions to comments (at) johnlautner.org
By supporting the John Lautner Foundation, you are investing in the preservation of an invaluable architectural legacy, ensuring that the innovative spirit of John Lautner continues to inspire and inform future generations of architects and design enthusiasts.
