A Masculine Midcentury Revival in LA - Remodelista
How do a pair of designers please a client who doesn’t yet exist? They took the original structure down to the studs, keeping only the original architectural frame and the house’s most dramatic feature: “ridiculous” (according to Sam) panoramic views of LA. The kitchen proved to be the most challenging room in the house. “Our woodworker makes all of his own stains, which we love,” says Sam, “but he probably loves it less since we found out, because we know that all of his samples can be tweaked to get the exact color we want.” As is common in midcentury houses, the floor plan was open and light on discrete spaces. In the living room, the designers doubly defined space by layering rugs: the top rug is vintage from West Hollywood retailer Woven Accents, and the bottom is from World Market. The house lacked a true master bedroom, so the pair converted a second living room. The new bedroom epitomizes the look the designers were after: trim, slightly masculine, and, thanks to new sliding glass doors to a balcony, filled with abundant natural light. The wall-to-wall red oak headboard conceals a concrete beam that runs diagonally to the bottom of the house. The master bathroom is tucked in what had been a dark corner. The cabinets are natural maple, and the countertop is Bella Créme limestone. Sam and Alexi don’t usually tackle the painting themselves, but Alexi created the wall graphic in the guest bedroom. The front doors and hardware are original and newly refinished. A tongue-and-groove privacy fence and garage door are additions to the otherwise well-preserved exterior. One of the original bedrooms–with its wall-to-wall plush carpeting and textured walls, the house was ready to be refreshed. The kitchen had been remodeled over the years and the designers decided to entirely rethink it. For more by Simo Design, see The Designers Are In: Expert Tips from Remodeling Pros and Rehab Diary: LA Living, Venice Style.