An apartment in the heart of Hollywood is transformed for work and play.
A bold painting by artist Amy Lynn Stevenson makes a statement above the dining table PHOTO BY MEGHAN BEIERLE
Scottsdale-based interior designer Lauren Jacobsen’s (ljacobsendesign.com) jet-setting, international bestselling author client was looking to transform her recently acquired Hollywood pied-à-terre—a centralized home base ideal for living and working. Its airy atmosphere, ample natural light and jaw-dropping views of the city alongside the client’s contemporary aesthetic inspired Jacobsen—but no project is without challenges.
The entire unit was designed to feel contemporary and modern. PHOTO BY MEGHAN BEIERLE
There are perks to living in a high-rise—think multimillion-dollar views and endless amenities—but for a designer, the renovation of residences in a condominium can be a hard task. “A design and construction package must be presented to the HOA for approvals before any construction can begin. There are many restrictions for construction materials as well as labor,” explains Jacobsen. “We could only use carpet or vinyl flooring in the unit, no hardwood.
Plumbing, electrical and HVAC must stay in current positions as it can affect units above and below.” To top it off , as the team closed in on finishing the project, COVID-19 started spreading across the state and Los Angeles entered lockdown. Nevertheless, the team was ready to push through any obstacle that came their way to create the client’s dream home. They embraced the openness of the space, leaving the utilities where they originally sat. For flooring, Jacobsen opted to use vinyl that mimicked the look and feel of wood. Every problem was met with a solution that fit in with the modern aesthetic they were looking to achieve.
CB2’s Sidera white stools adorn the kitchen counter PHOTO BY MEGHAN BEIERLE
“At the first project meeting with my client, she expressed she wanted a palette of black, white and gray/silver. Then, upon discussing the painting for the dining room, I informed her we needed to balance out the strong color and move the story throughout the home,” Jacobsen says. After asking the client what her favorite colors were, they added in her preferred hues—a deep red and a dark blue. Mixed with neutrals to give relief from the strong color palette, the color-saturated scheme felt perfect in the space. “I always try to push my clients out of their preconceived comfort zone. It is my job to create something they would have never thought of,” the designer says.
The master bedroom accent wall uses Tanzania gray wallpaper by Thibaut. PHOTO BY MEGHAN BEIERLE
In the heart of the home, the team created an open living, dining and kitchen space that is ideal for entertaining. The warm and welcoming custom furnishings are juxtaposed with the dramatic views and clean white walls. A novel yet functional detail is the true treasure of the living room—the team transformed a small closet into a beautiful jewel box bar lined with iridescent dark-blue tiles. Adding to the hues of the home are the client’s art collection, which adorn the walls like an upscale gallery. The client has a particular affinity for acclaimed artist Amy Lynn Stevenson (amylynnstevenson.com), so Jacobsen commissioned her to create a piece for the apartment. Themed around music—a passion of the client—and incorporating the color palette of the home, the bold painting makes a statement in the dining area. “I believe artwork and accessories are a big part of the design story,” Jacobsen says. “Investing in artwork is a wonderful and fulfilling part of creating one’s home and personal lifestyle.”
From the custom throw pillows to the modern silver finishings, the completed abode contains a strong sense of personalization and storytelling. “There is always a throughline of the design story for every project,” says Jacobsen. “It should always say, ‘You are about to experience something unique.’”
