Mid-Century Modern Design: Inside Lily Collins Home

Discover Lily Collins and Charlie McDowell’s mid-century modern LA home, a serene retreat where historic design meets personal charm.

In the tranquil, sycamore-lined streets of East Los Angeles, actress Lily Collins and filmmaker Charlie McDowell have crafted a home that masterfully blends historical significance with personal warmth. Their residence is a prime example of mid-century modern design, but it’s much more than an architectural gem—it’s a deeply personal haven where every detail tells a story.

This Case Study House, a celebrated symbol of postwar innovation, has become a sanctuary where Lily and Charlie honor its past while looking toward their future.

Mid-Century Modern house with clean cream walls and with concrete floors and with a wooden staircase and with a wooden dining table and with wooden dining chairs

A Historic Gem: The Legacy of Mid-Century Modern Architecture

Lily and Charlie’s home is far from ordinary — it’s a significant piece of the Case Study House program, an influential initiative from the late 1940s. This groundbreaking project aimed to address the housing needs of returning WWII soldiers while showcasing the talents of the era’s leading architects.

These homes, including the one owned by Lily and Charlie, embody the essence of mid-century modern design. With their clean lines, open spaces, and seamless connection to nature, they represent a revolutionary approach to residential architecture. The use of materials like steel, glass, and concrete reflects the innovative spirit and functional beauty of the time.

For Lily and Charlie, residing in such a historically significant home is both an honor and a responsibility. The National Register of Historic Places plaque by their door serves as a constant reminder of the home’s rich legacy — a piece of architectural history that they are dedicated to preserving.

Mid-Century Modern house with large windows and with concrete floors

A Love Story: Discovering the Perfect Home

When Lily and Charlie first walked into their home, they felt an immediate and profound connection. On a rainy day, the couple, newly engaged, were greeted by the warm glow of a roaring fireplace and the timeless charm of their future home. “We looked at each other, and it was just this overwhelming emotional experience where we didn’t need to say more,” Lily recalls. This shared moment led them to make an offer without hesitation, marking the beginning of their journey in this mid-century modern masterpiece.

Their approach to the home has been deeply respectful of its architectural heritage. Collaborating with interior designer Emily Farnham, they focused on restoring and enhancing the home’s original features, rather than altering it to fit contemporary trends. From reinstating concrete floors to selecting period-appropriate furnishings, every decision was made with the home’s historical significance in mind.

Mid-Century Modern house with large windows and with concrete floors and with a large brick fireplace and with a wooden chair and with a geometric rug

Mid-Century Modern house of Lily Collins

A Harmonious Blend: Mid-Century Modern Meets Scandinavian Style

The aesthetic of Lily and Charlie’s home is a beautiful fusion of mid-century modern design and Scandinavian influence. Lily describes it as “mid-century modern California meets Scandinavian serenity,” a combination that feels both natural and innovative.

The mid-century modern elements are evident in the home’s clean lines, open floor plan, and use of natural materials. Concrete floors provide a sleek, industrial base, while warm earth tones and textured fabrics add comfort and depth. This foundation is enhanced by Scandinavian-inspired touches, including minimalist furniture and rich rugs by Marta Maas-Fjetterstrom, which bring a sense of calm and balance to the space.

Charlie’s passion for chairs is particularly notable. His impressive collection features iconic pieces from designers like Hans Wegner and Finn Juhl. These chairs are not merely functional but are sculptural elements that elevate the room’s design. “The Collins-McDowell household has a very strong chair game,” Lily jokes, noting that Charlie’s enthusiasm for their design will surely be appreciated.

Mid-Century Modern house with clean cream walls and with concrete floors and with a wooden staircase and with a wooden chairs and with geometric rugs and with a large cream sofa and with a wood center table

Mid-Century Modern house bathroom with green tiles and with a wood lavatory and with a rectangular mirror and with rounded lamps

Meaningful Details: Infusing Personal History into Design

In Lily and Charlie’s home, every detail is imbued with personal significance. This is where mid-century modern design meets individual narrative, creating a space that is both stylish and deeply personal.

One of the standout features is a vintage 20th Century Fox sign, a cherished gift from Lily’s mother. It adds a touch of Hollywood history to the mid-century modern setting. Another treasured item is a forest green Yeti rambler from their wedding at Dunton Hot Springs in Colorado. More than just a mug, it symbolizes the life they have built together in their new home.

Books play a significant role in the home’s design. Lily’s shelves are lined with vintage children’s books, first-edition Steinbeck novels, and fashion monographs, reflecting her passions and adding depth to the design. Meanwhile, Charlie’s love for rugs is evident in his collection, which adds layers of texture and history to the space. Each rug tells a unique story, contributing to the home’s overall narrative.

Mid-Century Modern house with clean cream walls and with a wood shelf with some personal photos

Mid-Century Modern house with a wooden built-in bookcase with personal books and accessories

Creating Memories: A Home for Living and Celebrating

For Lily Collins and Charlie McDowell, their residence is more than a stylish abode — it’s a place where they create, connect, and celebrate. Their home serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of mid-century modern design, blending historical elements with personal touches to create a space that is uniquely theirs.

Their home is a reminder that great design is not just about aesthetics — it’s about crafting spaces that resonate on a deeper level. As Lily and Charlie continue to build their life together, their residence stands as a living testament to the beauty of mid-century modern architecture and the meaningful stories it holds.

If you’re inspired by their mid-century modern masterpiece and want to infuse your own space with similar elegance, consider exploring Marnois unique furniture. Marnois offers a range of beautifully crafted pieces that capture the essence of mid-century modern design, from iconic chairs to sleek, minimalist furnishings. Transform your home into a stylish sanctuary that reflects your personal taste and design aspirations.