“Australians really understand the indoor/ outdoor way of life,” says James of the generous courtyard that … increases their living area.
« on 1stdibs which surround a modern table. James added handmade lighting from New York-based Apparatus Studio.
“Australians really understand the indoor/outdoor way of life,” says James of the generous courtyard that substantially increases their living area and is accessed via new sliding doors. The courtyard extends to a wooden deck where a vintage Belgian table sits under an olive tree. Steps lead down to a large swimming pool that is cleaned using an innovative ionic system by Kem Free Water. A 3.5-metre daybed anchors one end of the pool below a row of Moroccan lanterns from Pottery Barn. At night they cast a romantic light over this corner of the garden which is shielded from view by a tall ficus hedge.
On the floor above, stairs lead up to a long corridor and a mezzanine balcony where a large framed photo of a raven taken by James overlooks the double-height living room. In the restful master bedroom, James raised the ceiling and added a new window, giving it a postcard view of Griffith Park Observatory. This room leads into an authentic 1930s-style master bathroom and dressing room.
What’s next for the busy couple? “Brian and I are very lucky as we are a good design team and there is an unrestored pool house yet to finish – all the plans are in my head!” says James with a smile.
jameshoustondesign.com; houstonphoto.com