James A Stevens

James A. Stevens, a visionary architect whose innovative designs and creative spirit left an indelible mark on the world of architecture, passed away on February 8, 2024 surrounded with family and friends. He was 95.

Born on June 13, 1928 in Endicott, New York, James was one of 11 children and the youngest of the bunch. James inlisted in the air force in 1946 and was honorably discharged as a corporal in 1948 so that he could enter the military academy at West Point. He did three years of military training at West Point but decided to forge a new path. An honorable discharge in 1951 began a whole new journey in his life. That journey lead him westward, first to Oklahoma for one year, and then to Los Angeles where he settled, married and had a family of three children — Claudia, Delia and Sydney. It was in L.A. that James enrolled at the University of Southern California. This began his pursuit of architectural design. His passion for architectral excellence and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional architecture led him to become a prominent figure in professional architecture of Los Angeles, from the 1950’s through the 1970’s with smaller projects thereafter through the 1980’s. James began his career working at Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West, then alongside the renowned architect John Lautner, where he honed his craft and developed a keen understanding of architectural principles. Under Lautner's mentorship, James flourished, contributing to several iconic projects that defined an era. James launched his namesake design firm and developed a number of iconic projects. Throughout his career, James's work exemplified innovation and imagination. His designs seamlessly blended form and function,creating spaces that were not only aesthetically stunning with thoughtful integration of natural elements but also incredibly practical. His ability to envision spaces that transcended conventional norms earned him widespread acclaim and admiration within the architectural community.

Complementing his passion for fine architecture, Jim devoted his life to spiritual studies and to the evolution of the human soul. From the 1960s he was a regular participant in teachings and gatherings hosted by Manly P. Hall at The Philosophical Research Society on Los Feliz Boulevard. His spiritual pursuits of self-realization included his devotion to daily nature hikes and to the Gurdjieff exercises. He backpacked in many of the high elevation peaks throughout California. James was known for being a calm, gentle and kind soul. He had an uncanny ability to correctly guess your astrological sun, moon and rising signs. He genuinely loved to engage with people as well as had a quiet monastic lifestyle. His sly humor was always a treat and often spot on with a punch line. He was an accomplished jazz pianist and was very involved in the L.A. jazz scene throughout the 1950’s - 1970s; often saying if he hadn’t gone

into architecture, he would have liked to have been a jazz pianest by trade.

He is survived by his three daughters and their loving families; friends, and colleagues, who will cherish his memory and continue to be inspired by his work.

His daughters -- Claudia, Delia and Sydney will host a memorial service in honor of James A. Stevens at a location and time yet to be determined, where friends, family, and admirers will come together to celebrate his remarkable life and contributions to the world of architecture. Please check back for update.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of choice in James' memory.