In 1979, Californian architect John Lautner was tasked with designing a home for comedian Bob Hope. The result turned out to be a futuristic ode to modernist architectural design. Known for infusing futuristic designs with technology, Lautner’s gargantuan 23,366-square-foot creation was certainly built to be an eye-catching residence that doesn't skimp on functionality. This iconic residential structure is one of the most awe-inspiring examples of modernist architecture you'll ever see.
This is the largest private residence ever built by John Lautner — a former apprentice of renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The UFO-shaped residence sits on 6.2 acres of rolling green land in Palm Springs, California. It features an outdoor fireplace, a pond, a waterfall and large stretches of perfectly manicured lawn.
The interior of the home looks more like a museum than a house. A huge circular opening in the center of the roof allows the bright California sun to shine through, providing light to the entire lounge area.
An interesting jungle-inspired room is just one example of Lautner’s attention to detail on the interior. A glass wall lines one side of the room, while earth-tone furniture and the jungle mural on the other wall tie the theme together. The mural was painted by Malibu Getty muralist, Garth Benton.
The waterfall and palm trees out back provide a gorgeous serene environment, perfect for relaxing strolls around the property. Elements of natural beauty were infused into the home’s landscaping, ensuring that not one square foot was lacking in elegance.
A curved copper roof adds to the ultra-futuristic design of this magnificent property — it's somewhat shaped like a UFO. The second level of the home provides unobstructed views of the Coachella Valley, and the home’s beautiful garden and yard.
Bob Hope’s former residence includes 10 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms — more than enough space for a host of visitors. Additional amenities include a tennis court, a putting green and a swimming pool. The residence was owned by the Hope family until its 2016 sale for $13 million and is sure to provide the buyer with a ton of entertaining space. Who knows — with today’s advancements in technology, someone might even get the house to fly away.