Discover How a Wood House Blended Historic Charm with Modern Comfort for a Warm and Stylish Family Living Experience
Renovating a midcentury wood house while preserving its historical essence and adapting it to modern living can be a challenge. However, with the right vision and materials, particularly wood, the transformation can be remarkable. This is precisely what happened in a Los Angeles home, where a thoughtful renovation focused on wooden elements created a warm and functional space for a young family.
A Historic Midcentury Wood House with a Modern Vision
Located in the renowned Mar Vista Tract, a neighborhood known for its midcentury modern houses, this 1948 wood house designed by architect Gregory Ain was in dire need of a refresh. The homeowners, Kaitlyn Vowels and Jeff Cooke, were committed to preserving the architectural integrity while enhancing its functionality. Enter Nina Freudenberger, an interior designer recognized for her ability to create sophisticated yet practical living spaces. She saw the potential in this wood house and embarked on a renovation journey that honored its past while making it more suited to contemporary family life.
The Magic of Wood in Home Design
One of the standout features of this renovation was the extensive use of wood. From wall paneling to custom-built furniture, wood played a pivotal role in bringing warmth and character to the space. White oak, selected for its timeless appeal, was used throughout the wood house, replacing conventional drywall with rich, textured wooden surfaces. This decision not only enhanced the home’s aesthetic but also made it feel more inviting and cohesive.
“When we replaced the drywall with wooden paneling, the house immediately felt like our home,” shared Kaitlyn Vowels. This emphasis on wood was a deliberate choice, reflecting both durability and a sense of organic connection to nature. The result was a cozy, stylish, and deeply personal living space.
Blending Vintage and Contemporary Elements
Achieving a balance between vintage charm and modern functionality required careful planning. Inspired by Vowels’ grandmother’s home, the interior featured a mix of new and old pieces that complemented each other seamlessly. The furniture, curated from Lawson-Fenning, was chosen with a discerning eye—each piece had to be visually appealing and functional.
The attention to detail was meticulous. Freudenberger ensured that even the smallest design choices contributed to the home’s cohesive look. A custom-made sofa in two shades of green was intentionally designed to avoid looking too pristine, creating an effortlessly lived-in feel. Raw brass wall lights, Moroccan rugs, and vintage artwork added further depth and texture to the wood house.
Functionality Meets Aesthetics
A crucial aspect of the renovation was ensuring the wood house was not just beautiful but also practical. With two young children, the homeowners needed smart storage solutions that kept the house organized without compromising on style. Built-in wooden cabinetry provided ample space to store everyday essentials while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic.
Freudenberger worked closely with the family to design a layout that maximized usability. From designated storage spaces for keys and shoes to strategic seating arrangements, every detail was carefully considered. The wood house was designed for real-life functionality, ensuring that it could accommodate everything from family movie nights to entertaining guests with ease.
Natural Light and Open Spaces
A significant enhancement to the wood house was the addition of new windows, which flooded the interiors with natural light. This change not only brightened the space but also highlighted the rich wood tones, making the home feel even more expansive and airy. One particularly impactful change was adding a window to the kitchen wall, allowing the family’s cook to stay connected with the children while preparing meals.
Although the overall floor plan remained largely intact, these thoughtful modifications made a substantial difference in how the space was experienced. The seamless indoor-outdoor connection, facilitated by large sliding doors, further enhanced the wood house’s welcoming atmosphere.
A Unique and Personalized Touch
One of the more playful elements of the renovation was the incorporation of bold and unexpected design choices. When it became impractical to use wood in every space, Freudenberger suggested a striking maroon and striped wallpaper for the kitchen ceiling. This creative touch added a sense of fun and personality, proving that a wood-focused house doesn’t have to be entirely about neutral tones.
Additionally, carefully selected statement pieces added character. A Danish ceramic-topped coffee table from Lawson-Fenning became a centerpiece, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. “It’s so sturdy my kids could dance on it, but you can also see the history in its wear and tear,” Vowels noted. These personal elements ensured that the wood house was not just a well-designed space but also a reflection of the family’s lifestyle and values.
A Nod to the 1970s Aesthetic
Beyond its midcentury roots, the wood house exuded a relaxed 1970s-inspired vibe. This influence was evident in the use of earthy tones, natural materials, and vintage-inspired décor. The family embraced this aesthetic wholeheartedly, allowing the design to be bold yet harmonious. Their trust in Freudenberger’s vision enabled her to push creative boundaries while ensuring the space remained warm and inviting.
Creating a Timeless Family Wood House
The ultimate success of this renovation lay in its ability to blend history, functionality, and warmth into a single cohesive design. This wood house is not just a beautiful space—it’s a home that reflects the evolving needs of a modern family while respecting the architectural legacy of its past.
Jeff Cooke summed it up perfectly: “This wood house embodies our lifestyle—outdoors, barefoot, and full of fun.” Thanks to Freudenberger’s thoughtful design and the natural beauty of wood, this midcentury home was transformed into a timeless sanctuary that will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
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Source: Architectural Digest DE
