Rudolf M. Schindler's Studio-Residence was the first modern house to respond to the unique climate of California, and as such it served as the prototype for a distinctly Californian style of design. From 1922 until his death in 1953, the building functioned as Schindler's house and studio. During this 30-year period, Schindler designed houses and small commercial buildings that today are considered landmarks of the modern movement.