RESTORATION THAT RESPECTS HISTORY.

 

Here is a survey of some of the projects I have designed, built and supervised.  Beginning with 3-D visualization, scale drawings and careful research, each of these have been re-imagined and restored to their former glory.  From the turn of the 20th century to modern construction, these structures have been restored to a visually appealing, yet functional state.

I specialize in period style bathrooms and kitchens created with traditional tile patterns, cabinets, hardware and fixtures.  Seamlessly blending salvage, vintage and antique materials with reproductions to create old style charm and character is one of my most popular services. I offer color consultations, initial restoration consultations, full scale project management for large restoration projects, and even property management services. I specialize in character building rental consultations and property management, as I have nearly 20 years experience in that arena .

 

 
1920's kitchen re-created based on remaining elements in Butler's pantry and neighboring houses built by same builder.

1920's kitchen re-created based on remaining elements in Butler's pantry and neighboring houses built by same builder.

Los Angeles has very specific soils and terrain.  Expansive soils and hillside areas present challenges when designing hardscape and landscape areas.  For more than a decade I've been working in Silver Lake on hillside properties.  Mixing traditional lawn elements with exotic drought tolerant details, can enhance a building both visually and structurally.  I work with a drainage specialist that assures that not only the foundations and property is protected from water intrusion, but the plants, gravel or grass block, will serve to beautify the building and surroundings as well.

Whether it's saw cutting an old driveway into attractive pavers or salvaging old fences to create planters and other defining features, recycling and salvaging elements is an important part of my process.  Keeping things out of the landfill can be attractive and cost effective.

PERIOD DESIGN CHARACTER, MODERN CONVENIENCE

 

It is possible to have the look and feel of period structures, but have modern appliances and amenities.  Character can be both functional and practical, without sacrificing style.

 

 
1932 kitchen restored and updated to preserve the period feel without sacrificing functionality.

1932 kitchen restored and updated to preserve the period feel without sacrificing functionality.

Kitchen Restoration

Echo Park Spanish Apartment

A rare bird, this original 1932 kitchen has survived all these years.  The tile was in poor shape in certain areas, but good shape in others.  I carefully removed and re-fabricated reproduction tile to match the original and restored the original sink, floor and cabinets.

1927 bathroom re-created to replace a dated 60's remodel.  Modern features, 1920's looks. 

1927 bathroom re-created to replace a dated 60's remodel.  Modern features, 1920's looks. 

Bath Re-creation

1927 Pasadena Spanishcolonial 

There was nothing left of the original bathroom in this home.  I researched and re-created this bathroom based on 'forensic design'.  Searching through the layers of the house and neighboring houses, I was able to find clues of the original tile and color scheme.

 
1932 kitchen re-created with reproduction tile, salvaged cabinets, floors and hardware.

1932 kitchen re-created with reproduction tile, salvaged cabinets, floors and hardware.

Kitchen Restoration

Echo Park Spanish apartment

Using one of the original kitchens remaining in the building, I re-created this kitchen with a similar feel and color scheme.  I saved original cabinets and fabricated new tile and cabinets to replace the ones lost over time.  Though the tile glazes have changed over time, there is a timeless feel to this kitchen. Fresh paint and some new hardware helped old meet new.

1927 bathroom re-created with period materials and reproduction tile and fixtures.  

1927 bathroom re-created with period materials and reproduction tile and fixtures.  

Bath Re-creation

Pasadena Spanish colonial

This bathroom had no longer functional plumbing and an altered layout making it un-useable.  Removing a door, fabricating custom tile and adding modern conveniences made this traditional four fixture bathroom feel like a 1920's bathroom, without losing functionality.  It is entirely possible to merge old and new seamlessly and elegantly.

RESTORATION DONE RESPECTFULLY