cf3 Fall Pot Luck - Members Only

They Built Their House of Concrete

Hello cf3 members-

Long-time cf3 members, Joel and Sara Pranikoff, are graciously opening their one of a kind MCM California Ranch home for our members-only fall potluck.  The Avril House, designed by Cliff May (1909-1989) was built in 1950 for Sakrete, Inc. owner Arthur C. Avril and his wife, Mary.

Built almost entirely of concrete, the house was a “guinea pig” project of Mr. Avril, a concrete engineer, and Robert T. Howe, a civil engineering professor at UC.  Avril, who provided the concrete used to build the Union Terminal, developed a building technique using forms designed to seal abandon mines.  Howe had created a new type of concrete that could be comfortably used on floors as a substitute for expensive hardwood; it could be sanded smooth, then stained and waxed or polished.  The new techniques and materials would be put to practical use for the first time in the Avril House.

Uniting the homeowner with nature was of significant importance to the home’s designer, Cliff May.  Known as the father of the modern ranch house, May began building his “ranchos” in Southern California in 1931, as a rebellion against popular “boxy” houses of the time.  Long, low lines, a single floor plan level with the ground and sliding glass doors all worked together to orient the house towards the outdoors and a casual, backyard way of life.  Consistent with this priority, the Avril House was built on a plateau in Wyoming, offering a beautiful view of the valley beyond.

Date: November 12

Time: 4-7pm

Please plan to bring your favorite hors d’oeuvre or dessert on your favorite MCM wares.  Electric serving warmers will be available for preheated dishes. Beverages will be provided by CF3.  The event is open to current members.  Address and directions will be provided upon RSVP.