Designer: Rudolph M. Schindler
follow artist

Rudolph M. Schindler
1887–1953

We celebrate the work and ideas of the early and radical modernist Rudolph M. Schindler. While his designs are rare, custom-made for his architectural interiors, his influence on the modern landscape is undeniable.

The twentieth century is the first to abandon construction as a source for architectural form.

Rudolph M. Schindler

6 Things to Know About Rudolph M. Schindler

He met lifelong friend and architectural rival, Richard Neutra while attending school in Vienna.

He was influenced by the connection of architecture to the natural environment in Frank Lloyd Wright's practice.

He coined the term Space Architecture.

The Schindler House (1921), an experiment in social and architectural theory, became the stage for California Modernism.

Clyde and Marian Chace, Richard Neutral, John Cage, and several other important figures would reside at the Schindler House.

His wife, Pauline, established Friends of the Schindler House, an organization that serves to maintain and preserve the residence.

Exterior view of the R.M. Schindler House, where Neutra and several other important creatives would live over the years. Photo by Julius Shulman, 1921

Rudolph M. Schindler 1887–1953

follow artist

Rudolph Michael Schindler was an Austrian-born architect and designer who came to define the landscape of mid-century modernism in Southern California. His education began at the Imperial Technical Institute in Vienna from 1906 to 1911 before studying under Otto Wagner and Adolf Loos at the Academy of Fine Arts from 1910 to 1913. Schindler eventually sought the mentorship of Frank Lloyd Wright in Chicago. In 1920, he was hired by Wright to oversee the important Hollyhock House commission in Los Angeles. Schindler would remain in California for the rest of his life.

His iconic home and studio, the Schindler Chase House on Kings Road, set the stage for California Modernism. The construction featured a minimalist approach and linear form built in sleek concrete with sliding glass doors opening to gardens — all of which became staples of the Southern California style. The space was designed for communal living and Schindler shared the space with his wife Pauline among many other important figures, including Richard Neutra and John Cage. Between the years of 1920 and 1953, Schindler designed numerous residential commissions such as the Lovell Beach House (1922), Rodriguez House (1942), Kallis House (1946), and the Tischler House (1949). While Rudolph Schindler’s death was untimely, his legacy and philosophy continue to be celebrated in his iconic structures.

Auction Results Rudolph M. Schindler

Rudolph M. Schindler, Unit chair and ottoman for the Van Patten House, Los Angeles

Rudolph M. Schindler

Unit chair and ottoman for the Van Patten House, Los Angeles

estimate: $15,000–25,000

result: $56,250
Rudolph M. Schindler, Custom desk for the J. L. Armon House, Los Angeles

Rudolph M. Schindler

Custom desk for the J. L. Armon House, Los Angeles

estimate: $30,000–50,000

result: $44,100
Rudolph M. Schindler, Armchair

Rudolph M. Schindler

Armchair

estimate: $10,000–12,000

result: $31,200
Rudolph M. Schindler, pair of stools from the Gingold Residence, Los Angeles

Rudolph M. Schindler

pair of stools from the Gingold Residence, Los Angeles

estimate: $20,000–30,000

result: $30,000