Here in Van Nuys

12609 Chandler, originally uploaded by Here in Van Nuys.

Is it wrong for me, an architectural snob, to proclaim my strange attraction and delight in this Chandler Blvd. folly?

There are very few intensely painted homes in Los Angeles, despite our sunny climate and enormous Latino population. Beige and tan, white and clay, pink and peach, these are the very cautious tones painted onto most stucco in the Southland.

But 12609 Chandler is not inhibited or shy. It borrows classical applique ornament and aquatic color to present something to the street that hints at joy and pleasure.

The only mistake is the black gate and the brown slate.

If Versace were still alive and working in Valley Village he would live here.