The Santa Monica Conservancy will host its annual Fall Salon on Sunday, Oct. 23, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Armstrong-Cobb house, a former home of actress Bette Davis.
The Salon will feature a tour of the estate and a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres, as well as a talk about the house’s architect, the renowned John Byers, by Dr. Ken Breisch, associate professor at USC’s School of Architecture.
Designed in 1926, the Armstrong-Cobb house is a magnificent two-story Spanish Colonial Revival residence overlooking the Riviera Country Club.
Originally constructed for Donald Armstrong, it was altered in 1934 for Irvin S. Cobb, author of many books and short stories, some of which were adapted for silent movies. The residence was featured in the March 2006 issue of Architectural Digest.
John Byers (1875-1966) discovered his talent in architecture while working as a translator between a homeowner and Mexican craftsmen who were constructing an adobe home in Brentwood. Inspired by the vernacular architecture of Latin America, Byers turned to architecture full-time in 1922 and received his architect’s license in 1925. He revived adobe construction en- hanced by authentic handmade materials, which are abundant in the Armstrong-Cobb house.
For tickets ($150 for members; $175 for non-members), visit www.smconservancy.org. Proceeds will benefit the Conservancy’s educational programs. If purchasing by check, please mail the Santa Monica Conservancy at P.O. Box 653, Santa Monica, CA 90406.
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