Silver Lake Residence by Laun

Grounded in warmth and whimsy, Silver Lake Residence perfectly embodies the vibrant essence of its locale and the unique terrain of its site through an ambitious and experimental design.

The revitalised 1930s residence in the hills of Silver Lake is home to musician Drew Straus. Laun draws inspiration from modernist architecture principles, crafting a dwelling that exudes contemporary charm while honouring its historical roots. As such, the home’s striking geometric facade remains largely hidden from the streetscape, with a tiered pathway guiding visitors to a rejuvenated courtyard entrance.

Laun draws inspiration from modernist architecture principles, crafting a dwelling that exudes contemporary charm while honouring its historical roots.

Central to the home’s innovation is the choice of materials. A blend of minimalist yet playful elements, combined with handmade and vintage furnishings, creates a sense of refined warmth. Natural materials dominate the exterior, featuring Alaskan cedar cladding and a copper roof that will patina over time. Inside, a white palette complemented with timber is enlivened by moments of colour – from the blue entry door and living room furniture to the cheerful yellows of the custom bathroom tiles and vintage fixtures. Similarly, vintage furniture, rugs and artwork passed down from the client’s grandmother impart a tactile quality and further enhance the cosy atmosphere. This nuanced palette is expressed in an experimental main bathroom adorned with custom glazed and hand-painted tiles by artist Sarah Bright.

To welcome the home into the modern era, Laun has crafted a dwelling that feels open and dynamic. The upper level has undergone a remarkable transformation, now featuring an open-plan layout encompassing the kitchen, dining and living room areas, with an existing covered porch offering scenic views to the west. In the living room, the roof has been replaced with exposed beams, which makes the space feel more expansive. This seamless integration of spaces is balanced by discrete ‘zones’ delineated within the living, dining and kitchen areas, marked by strategically placed millwork and shelving. Hemlock ceilings and kitchen millwork, coupled with white oak floors, extend the natural palette and contribute to an overall feeling of spaciousness.

Inside, a white palette complemented with timber is enlivened by moments of colour – from the blue entry door and living room furniture to the cheerful yellows of the custom bathroom tiles and vintage fixtures.

New additions were made to create a stronger connection between the dwelling and its natural surroundings as well as the vibrant neighbourhood. Designed to maximise views while retaining privacy, an extension was created for the bedroom wing, while two smaller existing bedrooms made way for a spacious main suite boasting panoramic vistas. Downstairs, a recording studio and office showcase wooden windows that link the interior spaces with the terraced backyard and pool area beyond.

Silver Lake Residence feels simultaneously soft yet vibrant, effortlessly harmonising with the vibrant surroundings of Los Angeles. This laid-back, sun-drenched abode serves as a serene sanctuary amid the lively urban landscape.

Architecture by Laun. Interior design by Laun, Onsen Studio and Drew Straus. Artwork by Sara Bright, Mayumi Oda, Claes Oldenburg and Sol LeWitt.