Inspired by Architecture: Remodel Ideas Based on L.A. Landmarks
Los Angeles isn’t just palm trees, movie stars, and traffic—it’s a building construction playground of design inspiration! From sleek mid-century homes perched in the Hollywood Hills to the bold, industrial vibes of downtown’s art district, L.A.’s iconic landmarks aren’t just fun to visit—they’re the perfect spark for your next remodel.
If you’re working with a general contractor or custom home builders in L.A., why not think outside the basic floor plan and bring a little local flair into your space? Whether you're breaking ground with a backhoe or just upgrading your fascia and felt (underlayment), here are five ideas inspired by L.A. landmarks that’ll have your construction site buzzing.
1. Griffith Observatory Vibes: Modern Meets Celestial
Griffith Observatory is a beacon of futuristic-meets-classic design. Translate that into your remodel by opting for clean lines, open spaces, and skylights that make your ceiling feel infinite. Add starry ceiling lighting in your media room to mimic that cosmic experience.
If your contractor is pouring a new slab with ready mix concrete, consider a polished finish that mirrors the sleek interior of the observatory. And don’t forget to talk to your construction company about passive house strategies—after all, stars shine brighter in energy-efficient homes.
2. The Broad: Bold, Geometric, and Eye-Catching
The Broad Museum is basically a lesson in CAD (computer-aided design) dreams. Its honeycomb-like facade makes a case for statement geometry. Remodel idea: add a 3D wall panel feature in your hallway or dining room.
Work with your home builders to incorporate fire-resistive (fire-rated) materials that keep your bold look safe and code-compliant. Pro tip: geometric designs also look stunning when etched into floating stair treads or glulam beams.
3. Venice Canals Charm: Coastal Meets Cozy
If you're remodeling a bungalow, channel the laid-back charm of the Venice Canals. Think warm tones, vintage tiles, and wooden elements (cue green board). Add a small outdoor deck or walkway over a water feature—because why not?
And when it's time to prep your foundation or footer (footing), make sure your builders are aware of expansive soils in the area. Venice’s chill vibe is best enjoyed on solid ground.
4. Walt Disney Concert Hall: Metallic Drama & Curves
For the brave and bold: take a cue from the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Consider metallic backsplashes, curved countertops, or even a unique frieze board (bird block) detail to echo the architectural rhythm of this landmark.
Ask your general contractor how to integrate GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets stylishly—because your curved powder room still needs to pass inspection.
5. Union Station: Art Deco Revival
Bring back the glamour with terrazzo floors, grand archways, and antique lighting inspired by Union Station. Think vintage-meets-modern—updated form and function wrapped in old-school luxury.
Whether you're revamping with a cost-plus contract or sticking to a tight bid, make sure your daily report covers every intricate finish—from flashing to custom framing. Oh, and a tiled gable never hurts.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Landmark
Your home deserves to be as iconic as the landmarks that inspire it. So grab those blueprints, sit down with your contractor, and get started on something that’ll turn heads.
Remember: good remodels aren’t just about style—they’re about smart systems. That means understanding your forced air heating/cooling, choosing the right grade of materials, and maybe even diving into BIM (building information modeling) if you're feeling fancy.
So next time you're driving past the Getty or walking through El Matador Beach, take a mental screenshot. Your dream remodel could be just a slab of flatwork and a change order away.
Ready to build your L.A. dream? Whether you need a construction worker to demo the old or a full team of builders to shape the new, we’re here to make your home just as unforgettable as the landmarks that inspired it.