Mixing Old With New in a '20s-Style Spanish Bungalow
Kitty Bartholomew: You're Home : Episode KIT-1212 -- More Projects »
Designer Mark Cutler was thrilled when he found his 1929 Spanish-style bungalow. He was instantly attracted to the charm of that decade and was inspired to mimic the style of the decade in his home's accents and furniture. But, instead of going out and spending a lot of money on antiques he came up with clever ways to mix his old eclectic pieces with new ones.
The ceiling trusses in the living room had been painted white but Cutler wanted to return them to their original wood finish. So, instead of sandblasting the beams, he had a faux finisher create the look of worn wood with paint (above, left). The original fireplace had sustained some damage but Cutler didn't want to remove it completely, fearing it would take away from the authenticity of the house. Instead, he had a pre-cast fireplace installed around it, giving the original support while also adding visual weight to the long wall. The bookcases are similar but not exact matches--one has doors to conceal the electronics while the other has open shelves (above, right). Both are constructed of older wood, which he thought would help to reinforce the room's timeworn style. Other pieces that make up the eclectic look are an L-shaped contemporary sofa and metal-legged coffee table, traditional wing-back chair paired with a marble-topped table with an iron base and a pair of leather club chairs combined with a glass-topped side table.
The guest bedoom features a wrought-iron bed frame and rustic iron chandelier. An old armoire with peeling paint provides a focal point. A piece of contemporary art provides a contrast to the aged elements. A traditional side table and dresser bridge the design gap.
The small kitchen is alive with color and chome accents. The cabinets are painted a fresh green-blue color with a deeper green glaze over the top to provide depth and the look of a rich patina (above, left). Brick-shaped white tiles on one wall serves as a clean, modern backdrop to the retro space (above, middle). Chrome hardware matches the trim on the antique stove and the frame of the baker's rack, which sets up high on the countertop on top of the front-loading washer and dryer (above, right).
Cutler created a private courtyard space with a gate and wall surrounding the front of his lot. The entrance creates a procession for guests as the enter through the gate, walk through the courtyard, then up to the front door.
Guests Mark Cutler
Designer, Mark Cutler Designs
8656 Holloway Plaza Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90069
Phone: 310-360-6212
Fax: 310-360-6213
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