House Tour: A Beverly Hills Gem with Architectural Pedigree
Nestled just a mile north of the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel and a quick five-minute drive from the luxury of Rodeo Drive, a remarkable home designed by Georgius Y. Cannon, a protégé of famed architect Wallace Neff, awaits discovery. This 1940 architectural masterpiece marries California charm with European grace, enveloped by lush gardens and stunning natural vistas, creating a serene oasis that feels worlds away from the bustling city.
Michael and Arya Martin, co-founders of the Los Angeles-based design studio OSKLO, were captivated by the house’s unique character and storied past. “We were immediately charmed by the house - old towering trees were overgrown and touching the roof rafters with white stucco details that made you feel like you were in a different time,” recalls Arya. The home, with its tall chimneys and elongated facade, employs a California-colonial feel that has been thoughtfully preserved through recent renovations.
For Michael, this project held personal significance. “In my early 20s, friends of mine would host the most beautiful dinner parties at an estate in the same area,” he reminisces. “I’m reminded of it every time I see that hillside. Luckily, we were able to create a tasteful renovation that respects this home’s past and the legacy of this amazing area that’s relatively unknown in LA.”
Design and Aesthetic: A Balanced Palette
The Martins have curated an interior that beautifully blends lighter colours from the Pantone chart with darker tones for depth. “We never stray far from the lighter colours of the Pantone chart,” says Michael. The creamy white stucco exterior contrasts elegantly with 100-year-old brick hardscaping and warm copper sconces, creating a welcoming facade. Inside, seamless herringbone oak floors harmonise with accents of white and grey marble, limestone, and rift oak cabinetry.
“From colours to window details and moulding choices, we really felt like the past offered most of our architectural answers,” says Arya. The remodel took over a year, emphasising understated elegance and a refined aesthetic that pays homage to its past.
Outdoor Living: A True Californian Retreat
One of the standout features of this property is its expansive backyard, complete with a detached art studio and an oval swimming pool - quintessential symbols of California living. Surrounded by lush, mature greenery, the outdoor space beckons relaxation and creativity. “Everything is surrounded in lush, mature greenery, especially after Los Angeles’ several years of above-average rainfall,” notes Arya.
The outdoor area is not just for leisure; it’s a carefully designed environment featuring a poolhouse adorned with an 18th-century marble relief, an emerald pony hair Jeanneret chair, and a custom coffee table from Studio OSKLO. Concrete seating by Studio OSKLO and Big Daddy Antiques enhances the atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for gatherings.
Interior Highlights: A Blend of Cultures
The interior design reflects a gentle European country vibe, accented by Japanese and primitive accessories. The guest room features a luxurious Ralph Lauren bed, a Gio Ponti writing desk, and a Charlotte Perriand desk lamp, creating a harmonious space for guests. The main bedroom is a sanctuary with an OSKLO Pavilion king bed and custom marble console, all set over a lush Lawrence of La Brea rug.
Every corner of the home has been thoughtfully designed to foster warmth and comfort. “We wanted to reconstruct the house but at the same time maintain its look and pedigree,” say the designers. Original doors were kept, moulding copied, brickwork preserved, and many original details duplicated and refurbished.
This double-lot home boasts a split-level layout, with main bedrooms and the kitchen situated on the upper floor, and a basement featuring a screening room and office. Each room offers breathtaking views of the Beverly Hills landscape and a serene lake, home to flocks of birds that add to the tranquil ambiance. “While the lake is off-limits to people, flocks of birds can always be seen going back and forth, framing an amazing sunset,” says Michael.
In a world that often prioritises the new over the old, this Beverly Hills residence stands as a testament to the beauty of preservation. With its architectural pedigree and harmonious blend of styles, it offers a unique glimpse into a lifestyle where history and modernity coexist beautifully, making it a true gem in the heart of Los Angeles.
Photography by Sam Frost