A Bright, Airy Midcentury in L.A.’s Silver Lake Neighborhood Asks $1.9M

Overlooking the Silver Lake Reservoir, this 1961 home boasts a trove of vintage flair, including custom built-ins, ceilings with exposed beams, and a central fireplace.

Text by

Kathryn M.

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Another turnkey midcentury is currently on the market in Los Angeles, California. Nestled in the popular neighborhood of Silver Lake, just a short walk from the lake, the 1,680-square-foot home has only changed hands a few times since it was originally built in the early 1960s.

The historic home sits tucked away on a lush lot in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Silver Lake. Stairs lead up to the main entrance, where a bright, painted door extends a warm welcome.

According to the sellers—Tim Martin, an architect and ceramist, and Michael Wilkinson, a costume designer—the original owners, Don and Marion Blyth, lived in the residence for more than 40 years. "We have only been the third owner," says Tim, who purchased the property in 2013.

Upon entry, a bright and airy foyer opens up to the primary living areas—one of which includes a tall, brick fireplace. Original hardwood lines the floor, contrasting with the surrounding white walls.

The multilevel dwelling presents an airy, open layout, filled with large living areas that provide direct outdoor access. "One of the wonderful aspects of living in a midcentury is how connected you can be with the outside," says Tim. "In our case, it has been the lake with all the activities surrounding it, which is available just outside our living room. And at the back, there is a private, leafy sanctuary always in our view."

Stairs serve as a subtle partition between the main living area and dining area. Custom cabinets and shelving units spanning across the wall date back to the 1960s.

Another view of one of the seating areas showcases the exposed beams and built-ins. Sliding glass doors provide waterfront vistas, along with direct balcony access, while also ushering ample natural light inside.

Throughout the interior, old effortlessly blends with new. Expansive, circa-period windows allow the space to be "brilliantly lit by daylight," with built-in details providing "nooks for fireside moments." A modern, open-concept kitchen is just steps from the dining area—both of which have sliding glass doors that lead to the rear patio surrounded by mature landscaping.

The kitchen is fitted with top-of-the-line appliances and offers plenty of counter space.

In total, the home offers three bedrooms and two baths. There is also an oversize garage space, which can easily serve as a creative studio or gym. Recalling what initially attracted them to the area, Tim notes: "When we were looking to buy, Silver Lake was one of the only neighborhoods where we could have a lifestyle of walking straight from our front door to shops, parks, dog runs, cafes and, of course, the lake. It was the perfect location to be active and less reliant on cars and transport."

Now that the couple have since moved, they are seeking to hand over the home’s keys to a new owner. Scroll ahead to see more of the property, currently listed for $1,895,000.