Modernist Legacy – Benmore Ter by Ome Dezin

Benmore Ter was initially designed as part of a series of private homes, all designed within the constraints of a midcentury style. Ome Dezin carefully realigned the residence to facilitate contemporary living yet retain warmth throughout.

Naturally well-lit, Benmore Ter is distinctively tranquil and located within the western side of Los Angeles. The most recent reinvigoration of the historic home aims to balance old and new. A pioneer of her time, Sarah Jane Lapin and her husband, Ellis, originally developed the collective of buildings that the house sits within, which pushes boundaries and maintains a connection to the surrounding nature. Ome Dezin worked within the existing constraints of the architecture to bring a modern relevance and overlay an expression of the owners through a unique curation of furniture, artwork and lighting.

Ome Dezin worked within the existing constraints of the architecture to bring a modern relevance and overlay an expression of the owners through a unique curation of furniture, artwork and lighting.

An open connection between inside and out is a key theme of the home and the new works ensure this remains. The integration of an atrium space both brings natural light and air into the centre of the dwelling and acts as a private and enclosed retreat. Generous glazing and views out ensure each room is animated by the natural elements. Window coverings are also kept to a minimum to facilitate the many visual links. Amid a mostly neutral base of finishes, timber plays heavily in warming and bringing texture inward, while natural stone elevates wet areas and integrates a sense of longevity.

Paying tribute to several iconic designers and artists that align in style and principle with the character of the home, the interior features curated and custom-built pieces that are of a similar language. The bedrooms and other retreat spaces are tucked up on the upper level, with the more active and social zones on the lower floor. The equally generous entertaining areas outside pull activity from the interior living areas, with the pool serving as a central hive of activity.

Paying tribute to several iconic designers and artists that align in style and principle with the character of the home, the interior features curated and custom-built pieces that are of a similar language.

Keeping in line with the original proportions and focus on nature, Benmore Ter retains its spirit despite the reworking. Ome Dezin focuses on the details and an overall balanced restraint to allow the personality of the home to shine through.