Breland-Harper's Historic Los Angeles Home Blends Classic and Modern Styles
In Los Angeles, Peter Harper and Michael Breland, the creative minds behind the design firm Breland-Harper, have meticulously revitalized a historic Mediterranean Revival residence. Their approach to transforming their own home encapsulates a deep respect for the structure's past, while simultaneously integrating modern design sensibilities. This balance is evident in their careful preservation of original features and the thoughtful incorporation of both antique and custom-made elements, creating a space that feels both timeless and distinctly contemporary.
A Symphony of Past and Present: Inside Breland-Harper's Los Angeles Abode
In the vibrant city of Los Angeles, designers Peter Harper and Michael Breland embarked on a journey to transform a historic Mediterranean Revival home into a testament to their unique design philosophy. The duo, partners in both life and their firm Breland-Harper, infused the residence with a blend of classical influences and modern aesthetics, all while honoring its rich past.
Their collaboration began in architecture school at the University of Southern California, leading them to establish their own design practice in 2019. This particular home, originally owned by a dedicated preservationist, presented a rare opportunity to acquire a property with deep historical roots, a rarity in Los Angeles's ever-evolving landscape. The previous owner, Patricia Adler-Ingram, left behind a terraced garden flourishing with ancient oak trees, a productive vineyard, and climbing white roses, elements that Harper and Breland were committed to preserving.
Upon acquiring the residence, the designers discovered hidden treasures beneath layers of more recent alterations. A pink carpet in the entryway gave way to an indigo terrazzo floor adorned with mother-of-pearl inlays, while 1980s white tiles in the breakfast room concealed a diamond-patterned terrazzo. These unearthed details became foundational to their renovation, guiding their efforts to restore the home's original character. Furthermore, removing heavy window coverings allowed natural light to flood the interiors, transforming the ambiance and highlighting the surrounding picturesque vistas.
While embracing modern conveniences such as updated electrical systems, air conditioning, and a second dishwasher for entertaining, the couple adhered to a "do no harm" principle. This ethos ensured that any contemporary additions complemented the house's original spirit without compromising its historical integrity. For instance, the home's Prohibition-era speakeasy was thoughtfully reimagined into an open bar area, equipped with Mexican recycled glass barware, perfect for gatherings. The original basket-weave tiled floors in the bathrooms were retained, and the overall layout remained largely untouched, demonstrating their belief that excessive intervention can unravel a home's inherent charm.
The interiors are a curated blend of eras and origins. The living room features the custom-designed Henry Sofa, named after their beloved poodle, alongside a 19th-century Neapolitan Mecca mirror and 18th-century Mexican silver altar candlesticks, creating a dialogue between different historical periods. In the library, a wall of bookshelves provides a cozy retreat, offering views of both the meticulously maintained garden and the distant modern skyline, prompting reflection on Los Angeles's evolving history. The inclusion of contemporary art, such as a Donald Judd chair and a Catherine Opie photograph, alongside a diverse collection of indigenous baskets from various Californian tribes, underscores their appreciation for both modern design and the cultural heritage of the region. Harper eloquently describes Los Angeles as a "beautifully complex milieu," a crossroads of cultures that is vividly reflected in their thoughtfully designed home.
This architectural narrative beautifully illustrates how careful preservation and thoughtful contemporary design can coexist, creating a living space that tells a compelling story of history, personal style, and a deep connection to its locale. It serves as an inspiring example for those looking to honor the past while embracing the present in their own living environments.