The John Sowden House
historic place
The John Sowden House, located in Los Angeles, California, is a notable historic place. Designed by architect Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright, it was constructed in 1926. This residence is recognized for its distinctive Mayan Revival architectural style, featuring ornamented concrete textile blocks. Its striking facade has been described as resembling a Mayan temple or the gaping mouth of a great white shark, earning it the nickname "Jaws House." The house was originally commissioned by John Sowden, a painter and photographer, who intended it as a showplace for entertaining. Its design incorporates a central courtyard, around which the rooms are arranged. The John Sowden House was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2003. From 1945 to 1950, it was owned by Dr. George Hodel, a suspect in the Black Dahlia murder case. The Sowden House stands as an example of early 20th-century architectural innovation in Los Angeles.