Theme

The lot’s second home was demolished to make room for a large backyard by L.A. standards. The picture window provides an interesting perch.

A Restoration Hardware sofa and vintage rug in the living room.

When Austin-based firm Matt Fajkus Architecture was tasked with renovating this classic midcentury home, they sought to open up the interior—not only by unifying the common areas into an open-plan layout, but also by literally raising the home's roof. This strategy increased the ceiling height on three sides of the home, allowing for the insertion of clerestory windows to create a bright and airy open living space. "The raised ceiling maintains the original pitched roof geometry to stay harmonious with the existing gabled roof in the private zone," explain the architects in a statement.

The open-plan living room maintains a strong midcentury vibe and features floor-to-ceiling glazing, tongue-and-groove beamed ceilings, an original brick fireplace, and refinished hardwood floors.