Julius Shulman’s Genius

If you’ve ever been captivated by a vintage photo of a beautifully designed mid-century American home, chances are it was captured through the lens of Julius Shulman’s camera. Shulman’s work is a masterclass in perfect composition but what makes it truly incredible is the way he literally created the carefree elegance and vibrant lifestyle that we now associate with mid-century architecture. 

In the 1930s, progressive architects dreamed of making the world a better place. Fresh and exciting concepts began to emerge like open plan living, indoor-outdoor flow and releasing the modern woman from the confines of the kitchen. Unfortunately, this bold direction was not shared by the majority. The American public was suspicious of what they saw as European ideals, what they wanted was a white picket fence with a new home in the style of something traditional. 

Fortunately for modernist architecture, Julius Shulman had recently dropped out of an engineering degree. It was 1936 and, in his words, Shulman was ‘just taking it easy’. No-one would have guessed a chance encounter with avant-garde European architect Richard Neutra would lead to a photography career that would redefine the narrative of modern living and offer a new and exciting American dream. Shulman had never met an architect before his meeting with Neutra but in that random moment, modernism had found it’s champion.

As a result of the post war housing demand, leading architects such as Neutra, Pierre Koenig and Charles and Ray Eames were commissioned to take part in the iconic Case Study Program to design inexpensive and easily replicable model homes. Not only did Shulman photograph these architectural studies, but he crafted an idyllic image of modern life that middle class Americans could aspire to. 

The Stahl House designed by Pierre Koenig is the epitome of post-war optimism and Hollywood glamour. The architect took on the challenge of building the modern home from new materials that would work on the steep Hollywood Hills site. It was a pure exercise in form follows function – there was no way a Neo Georgian home was going to work. Shulman made the home come alive with images that still captivate the imagination and showcase the glamour of the mid-century – bright lights, swimming pools, stylish people and the eternal sunshine of modern living. 

Shulman’s lively compositions not only frame the architecture, but also represented the new aspirational vision for modern life. Though he retired from photography in 1989, his work is more popular than ever and will continue to inspire for years to come. As Richard Neutra said, “His work will survive me. Film is stronger and good glossy prints are easier to ship than brute concrete, stainless steel, or even ideas.”