History: Architect John Byers' authentic design was desert home to Cary Grant

John Byers-designed Andalusian farmhouse, which would be Cary Grant's house from 1954-1972. The expansive lot and views are visible in this early p...

July 1, 2022
11:44 PM

John Byers-designed Andalusian farmhouse, which would be Cary Grant's house from 1954-1972. The expansive lot and views are visible in this early photograph. Enamored of historical building techniques, John Byers embraced California's early heritage. Born in Michigan in 1875 after the Civil War, the transplant to sunny Santa Monica understood the delicious textures, distinctive massing and gracious living uniquely afforded by early Californian architecture. He would become the quintessential practitioner of it.

Tracy Conrad