2. The Silver Top: Living Like James Bond

The 1950s: The Stahl House, Los Angeles, built: 1959 | John Lautner (1911-1994) was one of the most important contemporary American architects of the last century. His architectural designs are characterized by a sense of drama, powerful geometry and warmth, and a deep respect for the landscape. His buildings are functional sculptures. They are unique structures that no other architect has created.