Ordinarily, an architecture firm tailors its design to a homeowner, making sure that it fits his or her aesthetic and lifestyle. So what happens when there is no homeowner — or, at least, not yet?
When Cayley Lambur and Lucia Bartholomew, the managing partners of Electric Bowery, decided to team up with investors to develop a lot in Venice, California, it was a chance to act as their own client. They chose to build on one of Venice's famous "Walk Streets," which are pedestrian only, and they envisioned a Scandinavian-inspired design. To make it happen, though, they needed the approval of the committee who oversees the Walk Streets, and a plan for maximizing the narrow site.
Video of the Day
Video of the Day
Once the neighborhood was onboard, Lambur and Bartholomew started on construction, taking additional inspiration from the area's bungalow-style homes. The house's asymmetrical pitched roof and cedar cladding are contemporary, but still give a nod the surrounding architecture.
And as for the interior spaces, the duo opted for rooms that would flow into the outdoors and take advantage of the calm street. The open-plan ground floor flows onto a spacious outdoor living room, and the master bedroom has its own terrace. And in keeping with Venice's reputation, Mere Studios added vintage furnishings to bring in a bohemian vibe. Maybe the home doesn't have an owner just yet, but for now, Lambur and Bartholomew are satisfied that they brought their stunning vision to life.
