Initially built in 1963, this villa in the Brentwood neighbourhood has become an example of how classic architecture coexists in perfect harmony with a modern, minimalist and elegant style.

“Finding projects with a sense of architectural heritage and history can often prove to be challenging,” says Jordan Bakva, the designer responsible for Park Lane Circle. “This property, while enveloped in an overgrown landscape so much so that the house itself could hardly be seen from the street, exuded mid-century charm. Its exterior brick wall evoked the elegance of a Palm Springs estate that Frank Sinatra might have called home. The poured terrazzo entry harkened back to a bygone era and the kidney-shaped pool felt like something lifted straight from a Slim Aarons photograph. The floor plan needed modernizing, but the essence of a home with history was unmistakable.” This young designer saw this house as an opportunity, not just to restore, but to give new life to a space with soul – “architectural time capsule waiting to be uncovered and reimagined for the present day.”

While iconic, the mid-century architectural style can sometimes appear dated. The recessed bathtub in the master bathroom exemplifies this. To maintain its character while modernizing it, Jordan utilized Ceppo marble for the bath base and hand-finished micro-cement for the shower walls, seamlessly blending the classic with the contemporary. “This home was truly an endeavor in balancing and blending the old with the new,” explains the designer. “In that spirit, the inspiration drew from a wide variety of sources, ranging from the iconic Case Study Houses of Los Angeles to the work of today’s leading architects, developers and designers who expertly restore mid-century properties.”

The home’s palette is primarily off-white, accented by deeper tones ranging from beige to dark brown. “These neutral shades establish a calm and inviting foundation, while pops of color – such as pinks and reds – add subtle moments of interest,” says Jordan Bakva. These accents are thoughtfully woven into the design – like the Ceppo Noir stone in the powder room, the Bronze Fantasy marble in the kitchen, and the soft pink lime wash in the primary room vestibule – bringing warmth and character to key spaces. For the woodwork, the designer opted for white oak and natural stone.

For this project, Jordan wanted to develop a house with a strong sense of presence that remained discreet and unpretentious. So he developed a relaxed, cosy and calming environment – “a place where you can equally unwind and recharge or entertain and explore.” The designer explains that “this was achieved primarily through a deep connection to nature, visible from every room. Expansive walls of pocketing doors allow for seamless indoor-outdoor living, further enhancing that connection.”

Organic materials and natural stones connect us to the earth, enhanced by brass fittings and polished surfaces that add a sense of refinement. The whitewashed walls offer rich texture and depth, generating a serene and elevated ambiance.

Park Lane Circle results from the fusion of timeless design and contemporary innovation, set in a tranquil atmosphere where a warm colour palette, natural materials, soft textures, and a strong connection to nature prevail.