The Los Angeles bungalow in Larchmont Village, originally built as housing for the Vital lot, was redesigned by interior designer Raychel Wade to reflect the client’s cinematic vision.
Preserving neighborhood character
The bungalow was originally built as housing for the Vital lot and remains in a district that has largely maintained its early-Hollywood charm. Wade highlights that Larchmont Village retains its original atmosphere, tree-lined streets and original architectural features remain undisturbed, something increasingly rare in the city.
Client’s creative direction
The homeowner, a screenwriter, envisioned a space blending folk-music-era warmth with Hamptons-inspired elegance and the effortless style of a Nancy Meyers film set. Her goal was a layered, lived-in environment that balanced eclecticism with intentionality. Wade’s challenge was to furnish every interior and exterior space while seamlessly integrating the client’s existing art and personal belongings, ensuring the first home purchase felt distinctly personal.
Signature interior spaces
A standout feature is the “Conversation Corner,” a small, television-free retreat designed for adults to unwind with a glass of wine. Two chairs from Nickey Kehoe, upholstered in fabric by Michael Smith, anchor the space with a relaxed, breathable quality. Soft linen drapery, patterned wallpaper, and a navy sofa with contrasting piping introduce a youthful energy while preserving the original fireplace, built-in shelving, and windows.
The dining area retains the client’s original table, raised by a vintage rattan pendant light and flower-shaped orbital fixtures from Urban Electric. New chairs complete the setting. The guest room adopts playful elements, a rattan parrot floor lamp, layered patterned and striped drapery, and a graphic checkered rug from Salam Hello, against neutral walls that maintain a calm backdrop. This space offers a quieter, moodier contrast to the brighter, more dynamic areas of the home.
The primary bedroom, an addition by Rudin Donner Design, Inc., features custom nightstands from James Showroom with whimsical hoofed feet. Ikat-striped wallpaper and matching Roman shades complement a rich floral bed fabric. Sliding doors open to a landscaped backyard designed by Allison Massey Environment Design, framed by tall pepper trees, extending the indoor-outdoor flow characteristic of the region.
Balancing history and modernity
Wade’s approach ensured the home felt gathered and inhabited rather than overly staged. Personal items coexist with vintage pieces, each area developing its own color palette while maintaining visual harmony. The seamless integration of old and new makes it difficult to distinguish between original elements and new additions, fulfilling the client’s vision of equilibrium.
