Glendower is a minimalist residence located in Los Angeles, California, designed by 22RE. This 1920s Spanish Revival house in Los Feliz heart demonstrates how comprehensive expansion can honor historic character while introducing contemporary spatial vision. Originally 4,000 square feet, the home now spans 6,000 square feet with 2,000-square-foot addition paying homage to original architecture and neighborhood context through material continuity and proportional relationships maintaining visual coherence across century-spanning construction phases.
The facade grounded in historic character yet subtly renewed opens to entry hall where curved staircase ascends in graceful sweep. Original stained glass augmented by newly commissioned panels filters daylight across each step setting tone for spatial sequence unfolding toward home’s centerpiece – sunken rotunda living room defined by plaster molding and framed by vaulted archways drawing eye from room to room. Above, carved wood ceiling introduces warmth and intricacy while built-in plaster elements anchor space in traditional Mediterranean quality and simplicity.
New and old link through “portals” – small circular openings designed subtly bridging century between 1920s structure and 2020s expansion with transition so fluid it’s more felt than seen. This detail strategy demonstrates how modest architectural gestures can create visual connections across temporal boundaries without requiring obvious differentiation that might fragment spatial coherence. Throughout home, archways and vaulted ceilings create compression and release rhythm connecting spaces while allowing each retaining its own character.
Materiality shapes atmosphere at every turn through hand-troweled walls catching light in soft gradients. Floors transition from cherry wood to Roman and red travertine to marble, each surface lending own cadence while guest bath individual tile compositions create distinct palettes and patterns. Primary suite tempers Mediterranean warmth with spa-like tranquility, its scale and layout reflecting client desire for generous light-filled retreat with custom 22RE-designed plaster sconces emitting gentle candlelit glow recalling 1920s Mallorcan villa intimacy.
Millwork, integrated seating, and finely executed plasterwork underscore studio’s craft commitment while expanded kitchen and dining areas foster more communal contemporary living mode. This balance between traditional detailing and modern spatial programming demonstrates how historic house additions can update functional requirements without compromising architectural character through thoughtful material selection and proportional coordination maintaining period aesthetic while serving current lifestyle patterns.
