Lela Becker's California Oasis: A Home Harmonizing Nature and Midcentury Charm

In the heart of Pacific Palisades, Lela Becker, cofounder of Mother, has transformed her midcentury home into a serene retreat where nature and design coexist beautifully. Surrounded by a rare grove of redwoods, this 1955 residence, originally crafted by architect Mario Corbett, offers a unique backdrop that remains untouched by recent wildfires.

Becker and her family, who relocated from a nearby home in 2019, were instantly captivated not only by the lush landscape but also by the house's distinctive character. With its redwood cladding and design reminiscent of a steamship, the property needed a thoughtful restoration to enhance its mid-century essence while updating its interior.

Designer Jed Lind took on the challenge of reviving the structure, emphasizing natural light and integrating materials like cedar and teak that age gracefully. His goal was to preserve the aura of a Northern California home, which he achieved through careful modifications, including additional windows and a second story that enhances the connection to the surrounding woods.

To breathe life into the interiors, Becker enlisted designer Kelsey Sundberg, who envisioned a narrative that reflects the travels of worldly expatriates settling into their dream home. This concept inspired a stylish blend of French, Scandinavian, and California modern aesthetics, dubbed “west côte.” Sundberg's creations include vintage Danish furniture, custom wood pieces by Dusk, and unique finds like a brass floor lamp that add to the charm of the living space.

Becker's personal collections of crystals, gemstones, and vintage Lalique pieces contribute to the home’s distinctive visual appeal. The family area, designed for comfort, features a playful mix of slipcovered sofas and cozy bean bags, perfectly embodying the laid-back California vibe Becker cherishes from her childhood in the 1970s.

The outdoor spaces, reimagined by Terremoto, showcase an array of ferns and live oaks, designed to complement the towering redwoods. Daily life here is filled with laughter and leisure—children splashing in the pool, the sound of a nearby creek, and the aroma of pizza baking in the outdoor oven. Becker sums up the experience perfectly: “You feel like you’re in the middle of nature.”

Source: www.architecturaldigest.com