A Hollywood House Becomes A School Library: A Tale Of Community Triumph

In a remarkable turn of events, a house that once served as a film set has found new life as a vital resource for a local school. This story is not just about a building; it’s about the passion, dedication, and unity of a community that refused to let a beautiful structure vanish into oblivion. The journey from a movie set to a cherished school library is filled with unexpected challenges and heartwarming victories.

The Craftsman-style house, featured in the movie “Life as a House,” was scheduled for demolition shortly after filming wrapped in February 2001. What seemed like a routine clearance became a rallying cry for parents at Kenter Canyon, a charter school in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Thanks to the efforts of determined individuals, including Molly Maginnis, the film's costume designer, and architect Scott MacGillivray, the story took a different turn.

With the love for the house and a vision for its future, these parents embarked on a mission to save the building. Their journey was filled with negotiations, fundraising, and the tireless work of volunteers. The end result? A stunning school library that not only preserves the craftsmanship of the original structure but also serves as a beacon of hope and a space for learning for nearly 450 students.

Table of Contents

• The Plot: From Film Set to Library
• Community Efforts to Save the House
• The Building Process and Challenges
• The Impact on Students and the Community

The Plot: From Film Set to Library

The story begins with a house that captured the hearts of many during its time as a film set. Featured in “Life as a House,” the Craftsman-style structure was not only a backdrop but also a character in its own right. After filming, however, it faced a grim fate: demolition and disposal. This was not just another piece of property; it represented creativity and potential. The challenge was clear—how to save it?

As news broke about the impending demolition, parents at Kenter Canyon began to mobilize. They recognized that this house could be more than just a film set; it could be transformed into a valuable resource for their children. With its intricate craftsmanship and unique design, the house was a treasure worth saving. But could they overcome the obstacles that lay ahead?

Community Efforts to Save the House

The rescue mission kicked off with Molly Maginnis, who couldn’t stand to see the house destroyed. She reached out to fellow parents, including architect Scott MacGillivray. Together, they brainstormed ways to salvage the house’s materials and give it a new life. This initiative sparked a wave of enthusiasm among the Kenter Canyon community.

In just three days, they needed to clear the site, which meant rallying volunteers and securing the necessary equipment. The community came together, demonstrating that when people unite for a common goal, incredible things can happen. They were not just saving a building; they were creating a legacy for future generations.

The Building Process and Challenges

Once the house was saved, the next challenge was transforming it into a usable library space. The original structure was too small for the school’s needs, prompting architects to creatively expand it. With the help of professionals, the house was stretched and renovated to create a spacious 1,700-square-foot library. It was essential to meet safety standards while preserving the house’s unique character.

Throughout the construction phase, the project faced several hurdles, including opposition from some community members. Despite these challenges, the determination of the Kenter Canyon parents shone through. They remained focused on their vision, understanding the importance of having a dedicated space for learning and growing.

The Impact on Students and the Community

The newly opened library has already made a significant impact on the Kenter Canyon community. With its light-filled main room and cozy reading areas, students now have a welcoming space to explore books and engage with learning materials. The library not only houses 7,000 books but serves as a hub for student activities and community events.

Students like Benjamin Marx and Matthew Libby have expressed their excitement about the library, seeing it as a miracle for their school. Their experiences highlight the profound effect that a well-designed learning environment can have on young minds. This project has become a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together, proving that dreams can indeed become a reality.