Denton House: 1920s Home Revamped in Los Angeles

In the historic Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, Denton House is a 1920s residence has been transformed by Martin Fenlon Architecture. This contemporary home blends seamlessly with the environment through its green fiber cement siding, chosen to complement the surrounding foliage. Key features include a new kitchen, dining area, and primary bedroom suite, all designed to enhance indoor-outdoor living.

Modern green-painted home with large windows, surrounded by lush landscaping and trees.
Sleek, modern architecture with a raised deck and glass walls, surrounded by lush greenery.
Contemporary living room with wood-paneled ceiling, plant accents, and eclectic artwork.
Cozy kitchen with warm wood paneling, teal cabinets, and modern pendant lighting.
A modern kitchen with teal cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and large windows overlooking lush greenery.
Modern open-plan interior with wood-paneled ceilings, large windows, and outdoor views.
Modern wooden staircase with hanging botanical display, sleek interior design.
Bright, modern bedroom with large windows overlooking lush greenery and a wood-framed art piece.
Vibrant bathroom with hexagonal green tiles, freestanding tub, and colorful patterned walls.
A modern, two-story house with green siding, large windows, and a landscaped yard.

About Denton House

In the historic Highland Park neighborhood, a 1920s house has been reimagined for a local designer and artist’s family. The project expands the house and converts the garage into an ADU, integrating with the existing site. They reused and absorbed the original house framing and foundation into the new construction.

Durable and Cost-Efficient Siding

Most of the house is finished in fiber cement siding, known for its durability and cost efficiency. The variegated siding pattern references nearby Craftsman bungalows, while its green color, chosen by the owner’s daughter, blends with the surrounding foliage.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition

The new kitchen, dining, and living areas now align with the backyard. This change creates continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. Previously, this area was one half story above the yard.

Maximizing Space and Views

A new primary bedroom suite on the second floor is cantilevered to minimize the project’s footprint. The design angles follow the irregular property line, maximizing the view.

Sustainable and Biophilic Elements

Sustainable and biophilic elements are integrated throughout. Large north-facing openings bring in natural light. Shade trees and a lush garden rewild the south-facing front yard. Inside, views of foliage are carefully framed or simulated, with wallpaper mimicking the foliage in the central stair hall.

Innovative Rainwater Management

Photography courtesy of Martin Fenlon Architecture
Visit Martin Fenlon Architecture

- by Matt Watts

Tags

Gallery