Highland Park House

Nestled in the historic Highland Park neighbourhood of Los Angeles, the century-old Highland Park House has been thoughtfully revamped and expanded by the local studio Martin Fenlon Architecture. With its green fibre-cement siding that seamlessly blends with the surrounding trees, this project exemplifies a harmonious integration of old and new, visually and spatially.

Originally built in the 1920s, the house belonged to a designer and an artist with three children, one of whom has recently left for college. The renovation aimed to modernize the home while maintaining its historic charm and ensuring it fits organically within its site. Martin Fenlon Architecture achieved this with a series of strategic updates and expansions, bringing the total area to 2,740 square feet (255 square meters) after adding 980 square feet (91 square meters).

One of the most significant changes was the addition of an L-shaped volume at the rear of the ground level. This extension allowed for the creation of a new kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room, and it also facilitated the enlargement of the existing dining area and family room. The new volume is sunken below the main level, creating a smooth transition between the communal spaces and the backyard. This design choice was particularly impactful as it connected the formerly half-story elevated spaces with the yard, enhancing the home’s overall flow and accessibility.

The ground level also includes a living room, bedroom, and office, providing ample space for the family’s daily activities. A central staircase leads to the upper level, where two additional bedrooms and a primary suite are located. The primary suite is housed within a new bar-shaped volume that extends outward with a slight kink, adding architectural interest and maximizing the use of space.

The choice of materials for the facades further underscores the project’s sensitivity to its context. The fibre-cement siding, selected for its durability and cost-efficiency, features board widths and a woodsy green hue inspired by the surrounding environment. This not only ensures longevity but also allows the house to blend naturally with the verdant landscape of Highland Park.

Highland Park House stands as a testament to the successful marriage of historical preservation and contemporary design. Martin Fenlon Architecture has created a home that honours its past while offering modern amenities and a seamless connection to its site. This thoughtful renovation provides a model for how older homes can be updated to meet contemporary needs without losing their original character, making it a standout project in the vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles architecture.

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