As design editors, there’s nothing more cringey than hearing a historic home was a “total tear down.” Luckily, we’re seeing it less and less. The design industry is moving away from homogeneous, “same-same” spaces and leaning into a variety of styles…celebrating different eras and wholeheartedly embracing important architectural history. 

That ethos comes to life in this beautiful Los Angeles home from A 1000x Better. It took nearly two and a half years to complete, but as Lead Designer Patrick Maziarski tells us, it was so worth it. 

First, we’d love to know a bit about this property! Where exactly in Los Angeles is it?
The home is in the Fryman Canyon area of Studio City, CA. It’s an idyllic, transitional neighborhood. Many of the impressive residences were built between the 1950s and 1970s, and run the gamut of architecture styles, from American colonial to craftsman. There are many striking mid-century time capsules, our project included, that straddle the line between architecturally significant and outdated design fads. Both the location and inherent style of the home led us to imagine future occupancy by a young, successful Hollywood type.

When you first saw the home, what condition was it in?
The home’s exterior had the quintessential qualities of a post-and-beam home but needed a good refresh. The hardscaping and landscaping were also improved dramatically. The interiors, however, needed some rethinking. The finishes and fixtures were well past their expiration date, and the overall layout required much attention. The initial vision for the space was simple; enhanced flow, clear sightlines, and returning the space to its iconic glory.  

The style feels familiar but unique. How do you describe it?
The style is equal parts traditional mid-century and contemporary. The common spaces include many examples from the era – slatted wood, flagstone floors – and the bathrooms lean towards a bolder, color-blocked style. 

Did anything surprise you with this project?
In a beautifully unexpected twist, the once isolated north end of the second floor, previously accessible only by separate Escher-style staircases, was the perfect space for the principal suite. The spacious bedroom area adjoins with a custom, shoji-screen inspired dressing room, and into a slightly-retro, red-hued principal ensuite. The room is outfitted with a gorgeous Mehraban rug, Shapiro Joyal bed and nightstands, and fiber art by Lauren Williams. The newly encased cedar deck provides warmth and privacy while still allowing impressive, sweeping views from the bedroom. 

Patrick shares a few of his favorite details in the slideshow. Don’t miss it!