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Floor Plan of the Day/McBride Residence by Ryan Leidner

Architect Steven Ehrlich reflects on his experiences in Africa and Japan to build a sustainable, ever-changing home in Los Angeles.

The owners toured this home, which surrounds a mature tipu tipu tree, while visiting relatives for the day. The brick is original to the 1947 construction.

"When we designed the layout, we took into account the average size of the user's body and the way they move and perceive the space,

The team covered the brick with natural slate exterior cladding called Cupaclad, then added a charcoal-painted vertical siding to the upper portion. A landscape architect changed the exterior entry sequence so it meets the sidewalk, lining the new path with Corten garden beds.

A wood-burning fireplace framed by a wooden mantelpiece sits below detailed cornicing on one section of the wall in the dining room.

The double-height wall of windows in the living room looks out on the property and was a big draw on their first walk-through.

The builders created new, more expansive decks for the cabin and employed larger windows from Marvin.

The renovated parlor-level is a completely open space from front to back, with a door to a balcony that steps down to the garden.

White oak flooring now feels much lighter and brighter.

Those doors were replaced with a large glass stacking door for a wider opening and easy flow between inside and out. On this side, the walnut “Flatiron” millwork serves as storage and sideboard with a mirrored backsplash, glass shelves, marble counter, and bar sink. The table is by Matthew Hilton, and the light fixture by Sonneman.

A peek into the master bath.

The home is made up of four gabled forms: the main house—with an attached master bedroom suite in its own distinct volume (on the left)—an artist studio, and an attached three-car garage.