Nathan Bentz was an art dealer specializing in Chinese and Japanese
objects. Like Charles Greene, who took credit for the design,
inventive plan, and creative use of materials, Bentz would not
economize on the value of art. The use of steel I-beams allowed
for large spaces whose structure was disguised by plaster moldings
and soft lighting from fixtures suspended from the ceiling.
Picture windows provided stunning views toward the ocean and
the Channel Islands. The ambient lighting from these windows
allowed for safe display of Bentz’ collection of art and
artifacts. More of his renowned collection was exhibited in
a fully developed basement hidden behind a brick arcade of Moorish
pointed arches. Bentz lived in his 1911 home from the time it
was built until his death.
