Between Earth and Heaven: Architect John Lautner

Photo by Joshua White

Photos and models of famed architect John Lautner's visionary homes come to the Hammer Museum starting July 13. Lautner sought to link his houses to their environments. The rock-filled, open-air living room (left) of the Elrod residence — where James Bond fought in "Diamonds Are Forever" — commands dramatic views of Palm Springs, even if the massive sliding glass door is shut.

Photo by John Lautner

The above-ground "dining room" of the Arango residence appears to float above Mexico's Acapulco Bay. Bedrooms are nestled beneath the soaring patio.