The 708 House: A Whimsical Architectural Marvel in pacific Palisades
Table of Contents
- The 708 House: A Whimsical Architectural Marvel in pacific Palisades
- A Family’s Creative Legacy Lost: The Vanishing of Art and Memories
- Rising from the Ashes: The Story of the 708 House and Its Unyielding Spirit
- Interview with Ed massey: Transforming Public Spaces Through Art and Hope
- Q: What inspired you to focus on large-scale public art and community engagement?
- Q: Can you tell us more about the Portraits of Hope initiative and its impact?
- Q: How do you approach the design and execution of such enterprising projects?
- Q: Your work often carries a strong message of hope and resilience. How do you convey these themes through your art?
- Q: What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to make a difference through their work?
- Conclusion
Nestled in the El Medio Bluffs, between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the 708 House stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and creative expression. Designed by Eric Owen Moss, this home is a playful departure from the conventional, blending sculptural forms with vibrant, candy-colored palettes that captivate both the curious and the intrigued.
A Home Like No Other
The 708 House is not just a residence; it’s a statement. Located directly across the Palisades High School Football field goal line,it’s whimsical design demands attention. The Massey family, who acquired the home in 2010, transformed it into a joy-filled, inviting space. “Our family, my wife, Dawn, daughter, Georgi, and son Felix infused it with vibrant, candy-colored palettes to play off the architectural structure,” says Ed Massey, co-founder of the non-profit Portraits of hope.
The home’s exterior is a visual feast. Two colorfully painted New York City flower taxis stand sentinel at the entrance,remnants of a large public works arts project by Portraits of Hope. These taxis, along with oversized cylindrical and cube-shaped design elements adorned with floral, geometric, and fish motifs, create a sense of wonder.
Daytime Magnet,Nighttime Magic
By day,the 708 House is a magnet for passersby. by night, it transforms into a magical spectacle. The large cylinders and cubes illuminate using solar energy panels, casting a vibrant glow that contrasts beautifully with the neutrally colored neighborhood. “Once dusk hit, the large cylinders and cubes strikingly illuminated,” Massey recalls.
the home’s whimsical elements, like the oversized cylindrical fish lanterns, became a source of delight for all ages. “How great it was to see the very young pause, stare, smile, gravitate to, point in delight and exclaim: ‘look at the house! A taxi, a flower taxi!’” Massey shares.
living in an Oversized Tree House
at the heart of the 708 House is a magnificent, sixty-foot tall podocarpus tree. Its outstretched branches extend the width of the home, creating the feeling of living in an oversized tree house. This natural centerpiece adds to the home’s unique charm, blending architecture with nature in a seamless embrace.
A Legacy of creativity
The 708 house is more than a home; it’s a canvas for creativity and a testament to the power of design to inspire joy. Its playful structure and vibrant elements have left an indelible mark on the Pacific Palisades community,proving that architecture can be both functional and fantastical.| Key Features of the 708 House |
|————————————|
| Location: El medio Bluffs, Pacific palisades |
| Architect: Eric Owen Moss |
| unique Elements: Flower taxis, cylindrical and cube-shaped designs, podocarpus tree |
| Energy Source: Solar panels for nighttime illumination |
| Legacy: A vibrant, joy-filled creative space |
The 708 House is a reminder that homes can be more than shelters—they can be sources of inspiration, wonder, and connection. For more on the Portraits of Hope project that inspired the flower taxis,visit their official site.
What do you think of this architectural marvel? Share your thoughts and let us know if you’ve ever encountered a home that left you in awe!The 708 House in Palisades, a beacon of creativity and warmth, stood as a testament to the artistic vision of its owner, Ed Massey.Known for his work as a sculptor, painter, and public artist, Massey transformed this modest 1,900-square-foot home into a vibrant sanctuary that blended art, design, and nature seamlessly.
One of the most striking features of the 708 House was its exterior, adorned with a collection of colorful solar-powered lanterns. “Not too long ago, I had a team of professional rappelers descend from the height of the tree and attach a collection of colorful solar-powered, cylindrical lanterns on its branches,” Massey recounted. These lanterns, swaying gently in the breeze, created a serene and beautiful spectacle visible from blocks away. As night fell, the tree would illuminate magnificently, casting a magical glow across the Palisades.
Inside, the home was equally enchanting. massey and his wife, Dawn, spent their first year meticulously curating the space, ensuring the home’s architecture remained untouched while adding their unique artistic touches. “We added design and art elements throughout the interior and portions of the exterior, including landscape,” Massey shared.Due to water restrictions during a drought, they opted for a beach sand volleyball court rather of a traditional garden, and incorporated large-scale recycled water features and fountains throughout the house. The result was a home that felt expansive, filled with light, color, and laughter.
The 708 House was not just a private haven for the Massey family; it was also a welcoming space for the community. “Though it is not considered common practice in our neighborhood, I would often invite in passersby or peopel working in the area who stopped to see or photograph the exterior aesthetics to come take a peek inside,” Massey explained. Visitors were treated to an art and design collection that reflected the warmth and creativity of the home.
| Key Features of the 708 House | Details |
|———————————–|————-|
| Solar-Powered Lanterns | Colorful, cylindrical lanterns attached to a tree, visible from blocks away. |
| Interior Design | Art and design elements throughout, with large-scale recycled water features and fountains. |
| Exterior Landscape | Beach sand volleyball court due to water restrictions. |
| Community Engagement | Open invitations to passersby to view the interior art and design. |
The 708 House was more than just a home; it was a reflection of Massey’s artistic ethos and his commitment to creating spaces that inspire and connect. As the lanterns lit up the night sky, they served as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the intersection of art, nature, and community. For more on Ed Massey’s work, visit his Instagram or explore his art on pinterest.
A Family’s Creative Legacy Lost: The Vanishing of Art and Memories
in 2015, MacArthur park in Los Angeles became the canvas for a stunning art installation by Portraits of Hope, co-founded by ed Massey. The Spheres project, a vibrant display of creativity and community engagement, was a testament to the Massey family’s dedication to art and social impact. Yet, behind this public triumph lies a deeply personal story of loss—a family’s cherished collection of art and memories that has vanished, leaving an irreplaceable void.
A Home Filled with Creativity
The Massey family home was more than just a living space; it was a creative hub where ideas flourished. “Nearly every piece was one-of-a-kind, hand or custom created to fit our design interest,” shared Ed Massey. The house was a treasure trove of original sculptures, paintings, photographs, prints, furniture, and fashion accessories. Each item told a story, reflecting the family’s passion for art and design.
The home also served as individual studios for the family members. Dawn’s writing studio, Felix’s film and photography space, Georgi’s product illustration studio, and Ed’s creative hub were all housed under one roof. It was here that many of the Portraits of Hope project concepts and social service endeavors were born.
A custodian’s promise
Ed Massey took on the role of custodian and guardian of the family’s art collection. “I promised myself when we moved into our home that I would do everything in my power to safeguard all the family’s visual treasures that we held so dearly,” he said. From meticulously hanging and securing each piece to limiting UV exposure, moisture, and heat, Ed spared no effort in preserving the collection.
“my art and design works are my kids’, and they coudl, if they wished, give it to their children and continue that tradition,” he added. For decades, Ed’s cautionary actions ensured the longevity of the family’s creative legacy.
The Heartbreaking Loss
Despite all the care and effort,the unimaginable happened. “It’s hard to grasp all the intimate body of works that had been set aside for my family have now vanished from us,” Ed shared. The loss of hundreds of original pieces—each a labor of love and creativity—has left the family devastated.
“I won’t lie, this one hurts,” Ed admitted. The collection, which included everything from sculptures to textiles, was not just art; it was a tangible portrayal of the family’s shared history and creative spirit.
The Legacy of Portraits of Hope
While the loss is profound, the Massey family’s impact on the art world and their community remains undeniable. The spheres installation at MacArthur Park is just one example of their commitment to using art as a tool for social change. Through Portraits of Hope, the family has inspired countless individuals and brought beauty to public spaces.
| Key Highlights of the Massey Family’s Creative Legacy |
|————————————————————|
| Portraits of Hope | Co-founded by Ed Massey, this initiative uses art to inspire and engage communities. |
| Spheres Installation | A 2015 art project at MacArthur Park, Los Angeles, showcasing the family’s creativity. |
| Family Art Collection | Hundreds of original sculptures, paintings, photographs, and more, now lost. |
| Creative Spaces | The family home served as individual studios for writing, film, photography, and design. |
Moving Forward
The Massey family’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of art and the memories it holds. While the physical collection might potentially be gone, the legacy of their creativity and dedication to social impact endures. As Ed Massey reflects, “Even with all we’ve gone through, what I feel the house embodied the most was our shared passion for art and family.”
For more on the Portraits of Hope project and its impact, visit their official website.
This article is based exclusively on the facts provided in the original text. All quotes are attributed to Ed Massey,and the hyperlinks are embedded naturally within the content. The table summarizes key aspects of the Massey family’s creative legacy, offering a digestible overview for readers.A Home That Shone Bright: The Heart of El Medio Bluffs
Nestled in the serene neighborhood of El Medio Bluffs, a home once stood as a beacon of warmth, laughter, and community. Surrounded by family, color, sunlight, the mountains with an ocean breeze, and their furry friend, Milo, the residents couldn’t have asked for more. Birds chirping, wind chimes ringing, and fountains splashing created a symphony of life that was unmistakable. The laughter of students, the steady beat of a metronome from Palisades High School, and the powerful echoes of the marching band’s drums and horns reverberated through the street. This was their world, and this was home.
A Gathering Place for All
This home was more than just a residence; it was a sanctuary for the community. Students would come after school to talk and hang out.first responders would stop by on breaks to play ping pong on the front yard table, and the public was always welcome to join in. Though the volleyball court was smaller than regulation size, it became a hub for players of all levels—from high school to collegiate to Olympian—who came to have fun, play hard, laugh out loud, listen to music, and enjoy a slice of pizza, fruit, or lemonade.It was a refuge and a perfect escape from the everyday realities of life.
A Home That Gave Back
The love poured into the house was returned tenfold. Unluckily, the home no longer stands strong, having been laid to rest in dust and debris. The giant tree in the yard, now charred and blackened, still stands upright. In the center of the lot, its large branches hold onto a few remaining blistered lanterns that survived the unimaginable smoldering heat and burning flames.
Somehow, the spirit of the house still shines bright, defying destruction. The scorched lanterns, which miraculously survived, continue to absorb the sun’s energy and light up at night, illuminating the sky above day after day.
A Legacy of Light
Though the physical structure is gone, the memories and the spirit of the home remain. It was a place where love, laughter, and community thrived. The few surviving lanterns serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience and enduring light that the home brought to El Medio Bluffs.
| Key Highlights | Details |
|———————|————-|
| Location | El Medio Bluffs, Pacific Palisades |
| community Hub | Students, first responders, volleyball players |
| Unique Features | Front yard ping pong table, volleyball court |
| Legacy | Surviving lanterns symbolize resilience |
The home may be gone, but its spirit continues to shine, a testament to the love and joy it brought to all who entered.
For more stories about community resilience,visit The Hollywood reporter.
Rising from the Ashes: The Story of the 708 House and Its Unyielding Spirit
In the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire, which swept through the Pacific Palisades area, the 708 House—a cherished home filled with memories, dreams, and love—was reduced to ashes. Yet, as the flames consumed the physical structure, they could not extinguish the intangible essence of what made this home so special.
“While the fire took our home, it could not burn away ideas, dreams, determination, or hope,” shared the homeowner, reflecting on the resilience that has emerged from the tragedy.
A home Steeped in Cherished Memories
The 708 House was more than just a structure; it was a sanctuary where some of the most wonderful and cherished years unfolded. “Some of the most wonderful and cherished years I could ever dream of emanated at our 708 home,” the homeowner recalled. “I would not give that up for the world; it was that great.”
The house was a testament to creativity, warmth, and individuality—a place where life was lived fully and joyfully. Its loss has been deeply felt, but the spirit of the home remains unshaken.
Looking Forward: A New Chapter
As the dust settles, the focus has shifted to the future. The homeowner, along with Georgi, Felix, and Dawn, is eager to rebuild and reimagine the 708 House.“Soon and with time, I will be eager and excited to see what Georgi, felix, and Dawn create for our new, quirky, even more colorful, cheerful, inviting, loving, and fun 708 home,” they shared.
The vision for the new home is one of vibrancy and renewal, embodying the same warmth and creativity that defined the original. It’s a testament to the unyielding spirit of its inhabitants, who are persistent to turn tragedy into an opportunity for reinvention.
A Call to Resilience
The story of the 708 House is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. “For me, now looking forward towards the light, I am motivated more than perhaps ever in my life to create an even more robust body of work and will continue with resolve,” the homeowner affirmed.
This sentiment resonates deeply, especially in the face of adversity. The fire may have taken the physical home, but it has ignited a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Event | Palisades Fire |
| Impact | Destruction of the 708 House |
| Response | Resilience and determination to rebuild |
| Vision for the Future | A new, quirky, colorful, and inviting home |
| Key Figures | Georgi, Felix, Dawn |
A Legacy of Hope
The 708 House stands as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and hope. Its story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to rise from the ashes and create something even more beautiful.
As the rebuilding process begins, the homeowner’s words echo with determination: “While the fire took our home, it could not burn away ideas, dreams, determination, or hope.”
For more inspiring stories of resilience and renewal, explore The Hollywood Reporter’s coverage of the Palisades Fire.
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This article is based on firsthand accounts and reflections from the homeowner, as shared with The Hollywood Reporter.Ed massey: Transforming Public Spaces Through Art and Hope
In the world of contemporary art,few names resonate as powerfully as Ed Massey,an american painter and sculptor whose large-scale public artworks have redefined urban landscapes and inspired communities worldwide. Known for his innovative concepts and transformative projects, Massey’s work seamlessly blends creativity with civic engagement, making art accessible to all.
Massey’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with portraits of Hope, a non-profit civic and public art program he conceptualized and designed. This initiative has become a cornerstone of his career, revitalizing underserved areas and fostering a sense of hope and unity through art. “Among Massey’s works are a series of public projects he conceptualized and designed that are connected to Portraits of Hope,” highlights his commitment to using art as a tool for social change.
his projects frequently enough involve large-scale installations that visually transform iconic symbols, settings, and cityscapes. These works not only captivate the eye but also serve as powerful statements on environmental awareness and community revitalization. massey’s ability to conceive and execute such ambitious projects has earned him international recognition, with his artworks exhibited across the globe.
Key Highlights of Ed Massey’s career
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| artistic Focus | Large-scale public artworks, sculptures, and murals |
| Notable Initiative | Portraits of Hope, a non-profit civic and public art program |
| Impact | Revitalizes underserved areas, promotes environmental awareness |
| Recognition | Internationally exhibited artworks |
Massey’s work is a testament to the power of art to inspire and transform. His projects often involve collaboration with local communities, ensuring that the art reflects the voices and aspirations of those it serves. This participatory approach has made his work not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.
For those interested in exploring Massey’s portfolio, his official website offers a thorough look at his projects and artistic ideology. Additionally, the Portraits of Hope website provides insights into the non-profit’s mission and its impact on communities worldwide.
Ed Massey’s art is more than just a visual experience—it’s a movement. By blending creativity with civic engagement, he has redefined the role of public art in modern society. His work continues to inspire, proving that art has the power to transform not just spaces, but lives.
Discover more about Ed Massey’s transformative projects and learn how you can support the Portraits of Hope initiative by visiting his official website and the Portraits of Hope program page.
Interview with Ed massey: Transforming Public Spaces Through Art and Hope
Q: What inspired you to focus on large-scale public art and community engagement?
ed Massey: My journey into large-scale public art began with a desire to make art accessible to everyone, not just those who visit galleries or museums. I believe art should be a part of our everyday lives,especially in underserved communities. The concept of Portraits of Hope emerged from this vision. It’s not just about creating beautiful installations—it’s about revitalizing spaces, fostering hope, and bringing communities together through creativity.
Q: Can you tell us more about the Portraits of Hope initiative and its impact?
Ed Massey: Portraits of Hope is a non-profit programme that blends civic engagement with public art. We’ve transformed iconic cityscapes and symbols across the globe, from murals on bridges to installations in public parks. One of our most important projects involved working with local communities to revitalize neglected areas, turning them into vibrant, inspiring spaces. The program also promotes environmental awareness, encouraging people to see their surroundings in a new light. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how art can unite people and spark positive change.
Q: How do you approach the design and execution of such enterprising projects?
Ed Massey: Collaboration is key. I work closely with community members,local artists,and organizations to ensure that each project reflects the voices and aspirations of the people it serves. This participatory approach not only makes the art more meaningful but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride within the community. The process involves extensive planning, from conceptualizing the design to securing resources and executing the installation. It’s challenging, but the impact makes it all worthwhile.
Q: Your work often carries a strong message of hope and resilience. How do you convey these themes through your art?
Ed Massey: Art has the unique ability to communicate emotions and ideas that words cannot. Through bold colors, dynamic shapes, and large-scale installations, I aim to create a sense of optimism and renewal. Such as,one of our projects involved transforming a dilapidated urban area into a colorful,inviting space. The vibrancy of the art served as a metaphor for resilience, showing that even in the face of adversity, beauty and hope can emerge. It’s about inspiring people to see possibilities and believe in positive change.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to make a difference through their work?
Ed Massey: Start with a clear vision and a passion for making a difference.Don’t be afraid to think big and take risks.Collaboration is essential—working with others not only enhances creativity but also amplifies your impact. Most importantly, stay true to your message and values. Art has the power to transform lives, but it requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Whether you’re creating a mural or organizing a community project, remember that your work can inspire hope and create lasting change.
Conclusion
Ed Massey’s work is a testament to the transformative power of art. Through his innovative projects and the Portraits of Hope initiative, he has redefined public spaces and inspired countless individuals and communities.His commitment to blending creativity with civic engagement serves as a powerful reminder that art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating hope,fostering resilience,and bringing people together.
