Built during the Golden Age for Californian architecture, this Beverly Hills home has star quality

Located just one mile north of the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel and a five-minute-drive from Rodeo Drive, this classic Mediterranean revival home dates from 1940. The original house design truly epitomizes the glamor of California's golden age. So when Arya and Michael Martin, co-founders of OSKLO architecture and interior design studio, were scoping out the home's recent renovation they were keen to lean into the property's historic roots.

Take the tour, and find out how the home's new look blends 1940s heritage with contemporary Californian style.

'We were immediately charmed by the house. Old towering trees were overgrown and touching the roof rafters with white stucco details that made you feel like you were in a different time and far away from the city with a huge backyard,' says OSKLO's Michael Martin. 'We wanted to reconstruct the house but at the same time maintain its look and pedigree. Original doors were kept, molding copied, brickwork preserved and many original details duplicated and refurbished.'

Keen to preserve and honor the original 1940s architectural details, the designer's living room ideas incorporated the typically colonial arched doorway and added an Oliver Gustav sofa, antique side chairs in washed linen, a rug by Lawrence of La Brea, and a Japanese coffee table. The fireplace has been updated with a marble surround referencing the shape and style of the period.

Kitchen ideas began with the custom white oak cabinetry, with base units, wall cabinets and floor-to-ceiling cupboards arranged around the room's perimeter. The kitchen cabinets channel OSKLO'S signature Scandi style – smart, unfussy and beautifully designed.

At the heart of the new kitchen layout is a Calacatta Viola marble-wrapped island, bringing a slice of Beverly Hills glamour to the otherwise minimalist space. Introducing patina with natural materials, such as the marble countertops and herringbone oak floor, creates a subtly layered effect. The new oak flooring runs across the whole property.

The focus of the new dining room scheme is not the room itself but the beautiful view of the landscaped garden and Beverly Hills views beyond. What better setting for entertaining – and for informal meals – than this corner space with windows on two sides and access to the new patio?

Studio OSKLO dining chairs in natural shearling, and a custom Studio OSKLO dining table in Arrabesco Orobico Grigio marble add a contemporary style note that's still in keeping with the 1940s origins.

The home's white exterior, exaggerated lines and long facade, along with a huge backyard and stunning natural views give it a European vibe.

The property was originally designed in 1940 by Georgius Y. Cannon, a protégé of the renowned Californian architect Wallace Neff. The house bears the hallmark Spanish colonial touches that had made Neff famous across the Sunshine State.

The idyllic setting has been enhanced with steps down to a new oval pool and poolside studio, and its lush gardens were rejuvenated as part of the property's recent renovation.

'We researched classic Beverly Hills homes in the 1940s including Wallace Neff and Paul Williams for inspiration. From colors to window details and molding choices, we really felt like the past offered most of our architectural answers,' says Michael Martin. 'As far as interiors, we wanted a more gentle European country vibe with select accents of Japanese and primitive accessories choices.'

Subtle wall paneling behind the bedhead, and a selection of Studio OSKLO pieces create the desired look for the main bedroom, with a Pavilion King bed and nightstands in walnut. The rug is by Lawrence of La Brea.

Meanwhile in the guest bedroom, a design classic Gio Point writing desk with bentwood chair sets the tone with a Ralph Lauren bed in pewter velvet and custom Studio OSKLO nightstands in walnut. These details have been carefully curated to fit the home's architectural style, with a nostalgic reference to 1940s silhouettes, materials and colours.

'We never stray far from the lighter colors of the Pantone chart, sticking to classic variations of white but then adding a few darker tones here and there that lend a moodier feel and pop of color,' says Michael. 'Drapery is more of a natural tone, using washed hemp instead of linen to bring in more of an earthy feel.'

This Spanish revival home contains some striking original features but surely the most remarkable is this bathroom. Built into the curved tower section at the back of the house, it makes use of the high vaulted ceiling to create a dramatic tent-like effect.

There's plenty of inspiration here for anyone considering marble bathroom ideas to add glamour and luxury. Opposite the freestanding bath, a solid and spacious marble-clad shower enclosure and vanity unit elevate the look.

Architecture and interior design: OSKLO
Photography: Sam Frost