A california aerie: inside a redesigned ruscha home
A serendipitous discovery
This isn't your typical house hunt. A couple, already boasting residences in New York City, the Hamptons, and a Beverly Hills rental, weren't actively seeking a new home. However, when a property just down the street from them in Los Angeles came on the market in late 2020, friends urged them to take a look. Their son's enthusiastic “Oh my god! This thing looks amazing!” after glimpsing the house through the gate sealed the deal. This spectacular modernist home, built in 1971 and once belonging to artistEd Ruscha, captivated them instantly.
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Modern design meets california charm
The couple, a fashion executive and her partner, immediately purchased the property and swiftly enlisted the talents of architect Michael Gilmore of Weddle Gilmore and interior designer Mark Cunningham, a long-time collaborator. The owner's vision was clear: create a welcoming space that showcased the breathtaking views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, with a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living. This concept of “porousness,” as the owner described it, was central to the redesign.
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Embracing natural palettes and flow
Designer Mark Cunningham recognized the property's unique potential. Situated high on a hill, he aimed to create a sense of floating above the surrounding landscape. He prioritized subtle natural palettes and patterns, mirroring the textures of the hills. Drawing inspiration from California Mission style, he incorporated layered prints throughout the home, uniting the interior with the exterior.
nnConnecting indoors and outdoors
The design meticulously connects the interior with the surrounding natural beauty. Pale herringbone limestone flooring, used both indoors in the main gallery and outdoors, emphasizes this flow. Sculptural olive trees, carefully selected by Art Luna Studio, canopy the terraces, further blurring the lines between the house and the landscape. Large expanses of glass, featuring steel exteriors and white oak interiors by Steelworks Etc., amplify the views and natural light.
nnInspired by local landmarks and history
The redesign wasn't solely about aesthetics; it also incorporated nods to local landmarks. Two guest bedrooms, designed with the owners' adult children in mind, feature private outdoor access, bathrooms, and gardens, creating a