John Gary Wallis, AIA, Architect Horn Plaza, 1974 Here at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, with panoramic views of the city, this charming condominium excels on a number of different levels. The tight-knit community of WeHo Heights offers a quiet respite from urban life, with secluded streets, hidden stairways, and access to nature. Yet the fabled Sunset Strip is just down the street, with its vibrant music scene, historic nightlife, celebrity haunts, luxury hotels, and innumerable restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques. And Horn Plaza’s distinctive mid-century modern architecture provides a backdrop for an elevated lifestyle. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors and operable windows funnel cool breezes throughout the interior, and large-format porcelain floor tiles extend outside to the private balcony, blurring the boundary between indoors and out, plus ample room for a couch, chairs, and patio furniture. Cinematic views enhance the experience, with focused vistas from Palos Verdes to Catalina. Inside, the open floor plan is differentiated by a raised fireplace and a den area elevated to capitalize on the views. All finishes have been tastefully redone, with quartz countertops, distinctive cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, European fixtures, a stacked washer/dryer inside the unit, and a series of mirrored wall panels that reflect the ocean views. The Plaza’s resort-like amenities make this building well equipped for the fitness and relaxation of the residents. The heated pool and spa are surrounded by a spacious sundeck, with deck chairs for rest and repose, and a dry sauna for cleansing and detoxification. The club room provides ample space for lounging, with comfortable furniture, television, billiards, ping pong, and a wet bar for entertaining. A dog run with natural turf is a favorite among the four-legged friends, and a large rooftop deck features panoramic views from downtown to the ocean.
