Chris Pratt, Katherine Schwarzenegger Under Fire After Taking Down Historic LA Home

Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger have found themselves at the center of controversy after revealing plans to demolish a historic Los Angeles home they purchased less than a year ago.

The couple, known for their respective careers in Hollywood, faced significant backlash from preservationists and architecture enthusiasts over their decision to tear down the architecturally significant Zimmerman House, E News reports.

The Zimmerman House, a midcentury building with a rich architectural history, was acquired by Chris Pratt, 44, and Katherine Schwarzenegger, 34, in early 2023 for $12.5 million.

Despite its historical significance, the couple submitted a proposal to demolish the property shortly after its purchase and initiate construction of a new home.

The demolition marked the end of a cherished era, as the previous owners, Sam Rolfe and his wife Hilda, had resided in the historic LA home for over three decades.

Outcry from Preservationists

The decision to demolish the Zimmerman House sparked outrage among preservationists and architecture enthusiasts, who lamented the loss of a noteworthy example of modernist design, Yahoo! Entertainment noted.

Despite efforts to raise awareness about the home's historical significance, the demolition proceeded, leading to widespread condemnation on social media platforms.

Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger's architectural ambitions came under scrutiny as they embarked on the construction of a new 15,000-square-foot mansion across the street from Schwarzenegger's mother, Maria Shriver.

The new home, designed by L.A. architect Ken Ungar in his signature modern farmhouse style, drew further criticism from those who mourned the loss of the original Zimmerman House.

Cultural Impact

The demolition of the Zimmerman House highlights broader concerns about the preservation of historic architecture in Los Angeles and beyond, according to PEOPLE.

"Unbelievable the notoriously onerous City of LA doesn't allow anyone to do anything that makes actual sense - Allowed this midcentury modern house to be TORN DOWN," Realtor Julie Chang penned on X.

"It's sad to see icons of modernism needlessly destroyed by insensitive McMansion seekers," designer David Hill stated.

"Maybe I'm different but I would have a hard time sleeping soundly if i spent $12.5 million on this house only to tear it down," TV writer Caitie Delaney commented.

Despite efforts by advocacy groups such as the Los Angeles Conservancy and the Eichler Network to raise awareness about the importance of preserving midcentury homes, the destruction of the Zimmerman House underscores the challenges faced by those seeking to protect architectural heritage.

As Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger move forward with their plans to build a new home, the controversy surrounding the demolition of the Zimmerman House serves as a sobering reminder of the delicate balance between progress and preservation.

While the couple may have legal rights to proceed with their construction plans, the loss of a significant historic LA home has left a lasting impact on the architectural community and beyond.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Chris Pratt and wife Katherine Schwarzenegger face backlash for demolishing historic home - From WION