Mid‑Century Modern Masters: Buff & Hensman
An architectural partnership with a vision
Buff & Hensman made a lasting impact on Californian mid-century modern architecture. Based mainly in Southern California from the 1950s, their work represents a key period in American architecture when modernism moved from abstract ideas to practical living. Their houses weren’t just for show; they were carefully designed to suit the climate, landscape, and evolving lifestyles.
Instead of using steel, Buff & Hensman chose wood, crafting post-and-beam structures that felt warm and connected to their surroundings. They favored open layouts, large glass walls, wide overhangs, and smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. Their buildings didn’t dominate the landscape—they fit naturally within it. These were homes designed for real life, not just for appearance.
Their designs, often found on wooded lots, canyons, and ridges across Pasadena and greater Los Angeles, reflected a consistency of vision and a commitment to quality. From the celebrated Case Study Houses to private commissions for figures like Saul Bass and Steve McQueen, each project reinforced their mastery of form and proportion.
In this article we revisit that legacy—tracing their influence through key works such as Case Study House #20, Case Study House #28, and the Conrad Buff II Residence. The latter, recently restored with care and precision, offers a rare lens into the evolution of their practice and its lasting relevance today. Enjoy.
(Marco Guagliardo - Editor in Chief at Mid-Century Home)
Conrad Buff III and Donald (Don) Hensman created a prolific architectural partnership that shaped Southern California’s mid-century modern landscape.
Starting as USC architecture students designing practical tract homes in the early 1950s, they quickly demonstrated a flair for innovation. In 1952 they officially formed Buff & Hensman, and by 1958 had teamed with mentor Calvin Straub to avoid competing for commissions, creating the firm Buff, Straub & Hensman.
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