A lot of still-extant mid-century modern homes have this air of sleek sophistication to them, especially the more high-end designer homes with serious money behind them. Even the ones with a more campy, space-age aesthetic still have a suave, polished sheen to them, even if it feels dated. That's why it's fun to see a mid-century modern home that leans further into the whismical side of things!
I don't mean to say that this gorgeous mid-century home in LA's Highland Park neighborhood isn't sophisticated, because it very much is. However, as you'll soon see, it also has a uniquely quirky energy that makes the space feel fun, cozy, and playful - all ideal qualities in a place to call home.
Off the bat, I'll admit I wasn't immediately impressed by the exterior when Los Angeles realtor Gabriel Volodarsky (aka @realtorgabriel ) first approached it. While the lush landscaping, stylish stone pathway, and wooden outdoor vestibule looked great, the home's plain vertical-paneled sidings made me think of a warehouse - maybe that's just me, though. Regardless, any initial misgivings I had immediately melted away when Gabriel stepped inside.
The view from the entry atrium alone is just extraordinary. It opens up on the home's upper level, and you're immediately greeted by a two-story glass wall overlooking the home's incredible terraced backyard. That yard alone could have sold me, because it had everything I'd ever want in a backyard: multiple patios, raised garden beds , a swimming pool, a water fountain, a koi pond , you name it. But I'd be remiss if I didn't talk about the home, because it's just as whimsical and full of detail on the inside as it is on the outside!
Stylish MCM Whimsy
Frankly, this home was a blast to walk through, even vicariously via Gabriel's video tour. The tiered multi-level design with its wavy balconies gives it an almost-maze like quality, but because everything is so open, you're in no danger of losing yourself. It's just a feast for the eyes!
The upper level alone is a real treat. In addition to the loft office space, it houses two of the home's three bedrooms, each of them with en-suite bathrooms, and they're just teeming with color and character. Each one has these fun, unique, and even weird elements from its original (the wood paneling in the first bathroom in particular stood out to me). Even their decor, from the ceiling lights to the ornate Oriental carpeting, is full of colorful vintage whimsy. What I loved most, though, were those elegant reading nooks that flanked both ends of the upper level. I know my " dark academia ' girlies were clamoring for those!
The lower level holds the home's kitchen and living spaces, along with a loft bedroom. The mid-century modern vibes here are strong, though you can see hints of a more 1980s flavor of modernism blending in (according to Redfin, 1452 N Avenue 57 was built in 1978, after the peak of the MCM movement). I loved all the weird little side rooms and alcoves this level had, and how sophisticated decor like the enormous crystal chandelier and elegant hardwood dining furniture sat side-by-side with bead curtains , novelty floor lamps, and colorful funky wall art. It's such a fun, eclectic blend that really speaks to my maximalist sensibilities. I can only imagine what a blast this space would be for entertaining (though considering that one dual-headed shower with space for 7-8 people, I can only imagine what kind of parties the original architect had in mind).
I haven't even touched on half the details of this home, because there's just so much character around every curvy corner. I've never seen a home with a layout quite like this, and the quirky vibe its owners have maintained makes it feel so lively and fun. Were I living in California and about $1,879,000 richer, this place would be my dream home, full stop. Since that's not the case, though, I can only hope that its future owner appreciates its one-of-a-kind whismical beauty as much as I do!
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