This home in Encino, California, built in 1959, had just one original owner – it was actually the first home built in the neighborhood with a two mile stretch between properties. Prior to the renovation, the home felt like a 1960s time capsule with wood paneling, bright red carpeted floors, and large tile retro flooring.
Design principals Hollis LaPlante and Jordyn Grohl of Hollis Jordyn Design wanted to bring this home back to its original mid-century glory. They chose locally sourced decorative pieces that were vintage or vintage inspired to bring that authentic feeling to the home.
They kept the palette neutral and added luxurious yet durable materials for a high-end and contemporary look for today’s living. The 1960s kidney-style pool was in great shape, and the designers updated the landscape with low-water and drought-tolerant plants, giving the space a California-cool vibe.
We chatted with Hollis and Jordyn to find out more about the project their tips on how to revive a mid-century home in an authentic, design-forward way.
Do you have any details on the client brief?
“Upon purchasing this home we had initially fallen in love with the Mid-Century structure and the views. We wanted to connect nature and mix elements of both old and new while refreshing and updating the bones.“
What mid-century influences did you want to include?
“It was important for us to include expansive walls of glass that allow for indoor to outdoor connectivity, clean lines and a nod to Danish modern and earth tones.”
What do you think was so special about this period in American design?
“The midcentury period of design is special in its simplicity, clean lines its expansive glass walls which creates harmony between the home and nature. It’s feel timeless and cohesive in the design approach.”
What were your challenges for this project?
“Unfortunately due to covid there were delays in deliverables and therefore execution.”
What was the house like previously?
“The home hadn’t been remodeled since it was originally purchased, with the exception of the kitchen back in the 80’s. The home was walled off and didn’t have an open flow or cater to entertaining or enjoying nature from every corner of a room. It felt dark and a bit closed off
What in your opinion are the best features of the home?
“The best features of the home include the glass slider and creating connectivity between the common areas. By adding an expansive slider which reinforces the midcentury design style, we were able to create a new relationship between the indoor and outdoor spaces. This also provides an exceptional view overlooking the valley. We love that we were able to tear down the kitchen walls that originally sectioned off the home in order to create an open concept floor plan and allows for more harmonious flow between the kitchen, living room and outdoors.”
Last but not least, do you have any tips for people interested in buying a midcentury house or building a new home with midcentury design elements? What should they pay attention to and why?
“When looking at purchasing a midcentury home it’s important to look at certain key elements – is the structure sound? Do you like minimalism? Is the glass safe? A lot of original midcentury homes were built a long time ago and the glass may need to be replaced. If you are looking to restore or renovate be sure to find the right design team who is knowledgeable in the history of the time period so they can help you keep the design elements accurate.”
This advice is something that shines through in the results of this renovation.
Photos by Gavin Cater
