A Family Haven: Transforming an Encino Home into a Serene Retreat
Nestled at the end of a secluded cul-de-sac in Encino, California, a recently renovated residence embodies the aspirations of a young professional couple seeking a tranquil yet vibrant family environment. This serene retreat was designed by interior designer Jessica Alpert, whose firm undertook a comprehensive renovation to transform the property into a home filled with warmth, character, and modern conveniences.
The couple’s journey began with their relocation to Encino, motivated by their desire to start a family. Midway through the design process, they joyfully discovered they were expecting their first child. Alpert recalls their immediate connection to the property, highlighting the potential they saw in its expansive grounds, which included a long driveway that led to an inviting backyard with a pool and outdoor entertaining areas. “They were captivated by the land and the possibilities it presented,” Alpert stated, expressing the excitement of working on a home tied intrinsically to the couple’s growing family.
At the heart of the project was the couple’s vision for a family-friendly abode that differed from typical cookie-cutter designs. They aimed for an inviting atmosphere that seamlessly encouraged gatherings and everyday interactions, supplemented by curated vignettes that added dimension and personality to each space. Essential to the design was improving the overall flow, ensuring that every area of the home felt interconnected yet unique.
The renovation was extensive, involving a full gut renovation that meticulously took the house down to its core. Key updates included reimagining the kitchen and primary living spaces, enhancing the laundry area, refreshing the home’s exterior, replacing windows, and completing full furnishing. “Our updates honored the original footprint while maximizing its potential for modern family life,” Alpert explained.
The year-long project posed challenges, particularly in achieving architectural refinements such as a double-height living room and elevated ceilings in the main hallway. “These elements required meticulous planning and coordination,” Alpert noted. The outcome is a luminous interior characterized by an elevated sense of volume and spatial flow.
Beyond the structural enhancements, this period also held personal significance for the clients. Their aspiration was to be fully settled in time to celebrate their baby’s first birthday at their newly transformed home. Their satisfaction with the completed renovations was so profound that plans for a subsequent phase of improvements were expedited. Today, the residence stands not only as a beautifully crafted living space but also as a testament to a pivotal milestone in the couple’s life, designed to adapt and grow with their expanding family for years to come.
For those interested in a deeper insight into the transformations made, a detailed slideshow is available to highlight the remarkable design elements of this family haven.
