Pacific Palisades Residence by Electric Bowery

Pacific Palisades by Electric Bowery embodies the spirit of its unique locale – a home defined by adaptive reinvention, designed for functional family living amid a backdrop of music and artistic expression.

In the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, on California’s western coast, Pacific Palisades is a place of escapism and quiet contemplation. Echoing the mid-century Mediterranean essence of the neighbourhood, the existing dwelling is generously proportioned, with a logical arrangement of interconnected rooms. Home to a young family, the dwelling is a warm, personal space filled with memories and treasured artefacts.

“The aim was to transform the overly grand structure into a serene sanctuary that reflects the clients’ appreciation for contemporary art and music.”

Designed by Electric Bowery co-founders Lucia Bartholomew and Cayley Lambur, the project is an exercise in adaptive reinvention. “The clients sought to create a calming blank space that showcases unexpected interiors within the Spanish Colonial bones of the house,” recalls Bartholomew. Honouring the home’s archetypal character, rooms are thoughtfully reimagined around an existing framework of ceiling beams, entranceways and outward-facing apertures. “The aim was to transform the overly grand structure into a serene sanctuary that reflects the clients’ appreciation for contemporary art and music while embracing a stripped-back elegance inspired by Dutch designer Axel Vervoordt.” The result is a gallery of distinct, timeless styles that bridges old and new.

Arranged around a double-height volume, the entryway greets with a curvilinear stair crafted from wrought-iron railings, timber and geometric tile. This transitional domain is flanked by communal spaces for gathering and respite – interconnected yet markedly defined by the weighty thresholds of the original structure. “The layout was reconceived to create distinct zones for family living and entertaining,” explains Lambur. “The design emphasises open connections between interior and exterior spaces through large, wood-framed doors that lead to patios, a pool and a spa.” Ascending to the private quarters, arched openings reveal light-filled bedrooms softened by intricate wallpaper and delicate drapery.

Pacific Palisades is a melting pot of design influences – a Mediterranean Revival refined to its essential parts.

Pacific Palisades is a melting pot of design influences – a Mediterranean Revival refined to its essential parts. Dark oak floorboards flow from one space to the next, punctuated by custom rugs and terracotta tile inlays. Limewashed walls act as a canvas for the vibrant hues of contemporary artworks, with warm honey tones woven throughout. Mimicking the gentle curve of the lounge room sofa, “an inbuilt round banquette serves as a focal point at the end of the entry hallway,” says Lambur. In this social space, the open kitchen takes centrestage, defined by a palette of blackened oak, natural walnut and Rosso Toscana marble set against a glossy wall of handmade burgundy tiles.

Suited to its occupants, a games room is at the heart of the dwelling’s arrangement. In contrast to the surrounding light-filled spaces, its moody mauve surfaces evoke the ambience of a timeworn Spanish tavern. Across the corridor, an all-embracing family retreat invites idle play, thoughtfully furnished for children and adults alike. Rich velvet upholstery links one room to the next, cloaked in muted grassy greens, royal blues and deep ochres. “The interplay of modern artistry and historical integrity creates a home that feels effortlessly connected to both its context and the family’s distinctive way of living,” says Bartholomew.

“The interplay of modern artistry and historical integrity creates a home that feels effortlessly connected to both its context and the family’s distinctive way of living.”

Inspired by mid-century sensibilities and Spanish Colonial vernacular, the grand abode captures the essence of its locale. Pacific Palisades is as much about outlook as it is about introspection – a home of human-scale resolve, imbued with contemporary delight.

Architecture and interior design by Electric Bowery. Build by Vallernaud Construction. Landscape by Eric Brandon Gomez and Hatch Landscape.