SUNSET STEEL

Preservation and Restoration

Noted to be the first of its kind in California and the Unites States, this all-steel constructed home sits on a corner lot with views of the Pacific Ocean in Marquez Knolls.  Keeping the same character and Spanish Mission Style exterior was an important part of this renovation project.  The original clay roof tiles were salvaged and reused. The hand troweled stucco, often referred to as ‘cat’s face finish,’ was replicated to match what was there before.  This gives the exterior an authenticity and juxtaposition with the modern interiors that await you.   New ironworks were created to replicate styles of the era for new railings and gates.  Judson Studios, the oldest family-run stained glass company in America, is believed to be the original artisans that created the stained glass in the home. We commissioned the firm to restore the panels and for several new pieces in the home.  This included a new stained glass window for the living room facing Sunset Boulevard, as well as new inset windows on the garage doors.  Custom fabricators made  historically-accurate window hardware just for this project.  Reclaimed barn wood from Ohio was used for the new outdoor dining trellis and to refurbish the front porch, which required extensive renovation after nearly 100 years.  The porch is a favorite spot for the homeowners to sit and take in the ocean view and breezes.  The smallest details were considered in this careful restoration.

Creating a new, fresh and modern interior that balances the historic details is a specialty of Krueger Architects. We were able to maintain the same exterior facade, but the footprint of the home was completely changed for modern living. All walls, floors, and ceilings, and terra cotta roof tiles were removed.  Only the steel structure remained.  New mechanicals, plumbing, electrical, and smart home technologies were added in.  Preserved details such as the Judson Studios clerestory windows and plaster corbels are now feature elements in the newly located central hall, where once had been the dining room.  A brand new, expansive skylight supported by the original steel truss tops the central hall.  All of this metal work had been hidden in the ceiling. 

The former kitchen was small and utilitarian.  Kitchen’s weren’t the central hub of the home as they are today.  We moved the kitchen to not only have more space, but to showcase the exposed steel truss system that we uncovered during demolition.  Reclaimed Terra Cotta floors are the perfect compliment to new, custom cabinets and the sleek top-of-the-line appliances.  An outdoor dining area directly off the kitchen, along with private plunge pool, sauna, and outdoor shower highlight the benefits of living on the coast in California and create that indoor-outdoor connection. 

This former home to Hollywood legends, Carol O’Conner and the Barrymore family, will now be a generational home preserved for at least another century through the current owners stewardship of this historically significant property.