California firm Síol Studios has maintained the historical character of a 1920s dwelling while adding contemporary elements, including an eclectic array of furnishings and artwork.
Encompassing 1,848 square feet (172 square metres), the Genesee project was designed for Sonya Yu and Zack Lara, a San Francisco couple with two children. They desired a second home in Los Angeles, particularly one with a backyard and swimming pool.

They ended up purchasing a single-storey, 1920s dwelling in the city's Sunset Square neighbourhood. The Spanish colonial revival-style house has white-painted stucco facades and a red-tile roof, along with arched windows and doors. It also features a garden, pool, and detached guest house.
The clients wanted to retain the home's charm while updating it to fit their personal tastes. They turned to San Francisco-based Síol Studios to overhaul the interior, along with adding awnings and a patio to the exterior.
The goal was to establish a "subtle freshness, a delicateness of space created by sculptural forms melding together". While certain elements were kept in place, parts of the interior were completely reconfigured.
The kitchen was relocated to the rear of the house, where the team also installed a folding glass door, providing a seamless connection to the backyard.

The cooking area features green cabinetry and terra-cotta floor tiles with an arabesque motif. Patterned tiles also clad the backsplash, serving as "a bit of textural ...