A Franklin Hills Mid-Century Reimagined: Light, Line, and Landscape

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Franklin Hills, a cherished enclave within Los Feliz, has long been celebrated for its distinctive character and diverse architectural tapestry. This historic residential neighborhood, set amidst the rolling hills east of Los Feliz Village, is renowned for its winding streets that offer surprising panoramic views and a unique “collage of architectural styles.” From the Gothic Revival elegance of the Shakespeare Bridge, a local landmark built in 1926, to a network of public stairways from the 1920s, the area quietly speaks to a rich history of urban planning and community connection. While many homes in the broader Los Feliz area lean towards Spanish Colonial Revival or classic California bungalows, Franklin Hills also proudly hosts significant Mid-Century Modern designs, echoing a period of innovative residential architecture in Los Angeles. It offers a slower, more tranquil pace of life, a harmonious blend of long-time residents and creative newcomers drawn to its unique charm and proximity to vibrant cultural hubs.

This particular residence, privately set behind mature hedging and gates, embodies a thoughtful reimagining of Mid-Century principles. Its clean architectural lines are complemented by sculptural cacti and drought-tolerant landscaping, creating an immediate sense of curated calm upon arrival.

Inside, the home unfolds with an effortless grace. Vaulted beamed ceilings and strategically placed Velux skylights, equipped with solar-powered shades, invite an abundance of natural light, celebrating the open layout and the carefully selected finishes. The living room, a central gathering space, is anchored by a chic brick fireplace, its hearth a subtle focal point, while expansive picture windows frame views of the front garden.

The spatial flow transitions seamlessly into the dining area, where a striking walnut accent wall provides a rich backdrop. Overhead, a George Nelson Bubble Lamp, an enduring icon of mid-century design first produced in 1952, casts a soft, diffused glow, a testament to Nelson’s innovative use of materials and his pursuit of elegant functionality.

The adjacent kitchen continues this refined material palette, pairing warm walnut cabinetry with a glazed tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances. A generous pantry and a peninsula with bar seating enhance both functionality and social interaction. A stylish breakfast nook, illuminated by another George Nelson pendant, offers a more casual dining experience, while a charming powder room, adorned with striped Sandberg wallpaper, provides a distinctive touch for guests. Sandberg, a Swedish design house founded in 1976, is celebrated for its hand-drawn patterns and sustainable ethos, often drawing inspiration from the Swedish landscape and cultural heritage, a purveyor to the Royal Court of Sweden.

Sliding doors off the breakfast area extend the living space to a private patio, fostering an easy connection for outdoor relaxation and entertainment. The residence offers three bedrooms, including a primary suite distinguished by vaulted beamed ceilings, a spacious walk-in closet, and direct access to the rear garden. The accompanying spa-inspired bath is a sanctuary, featuring terrazzo tile floors, a dual vanity, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Two guest bedrooms with skylights and a beautifully designed hall bath with statement tilework complete the thoughtful layout, along with a spacious laundry room.

The property is entirely fenced and gated, encompassing several outdoor areas, including a lush grassy lawn and a paver-stone patio, ideal for dining under the stars. An oversized two-car garage with an EV charger and a gated driveway provide both convenience and secure parking.

Ideally positioned on the cusp of Silver Lake and Los Feliz, this home offers immediate access to the vibrant lifestyle of the Eastside. A short distance leads to the commercial offerings on Hyperion Avenue—including Speranza restaurant, Trader Joe’s, Gelson’s, and Rodeo Fitness—and the dynamic shops and restaurants of Los Feliz Village, such as All Time, Maru, MUD, and Little Dom’s. Additionally, the expansive hiking trails and open spaces of Griffith Park are mere moments away, providing an unparalleled natural escape within the city.

Photo by Gavin Cater
Listing courtesy of Lori Harris and Andrew Sanchez of Keller Williams Realty Los Feliz