12.16.2016 | DIGS.NET 137
(from top) e 6,000-square- foot home ošers a shallow, sloping roof supported by
exposed steel beams, reminiscent of post-and-beam construction; this home's three-story
atrium is accented by steel-framed glass ›oors and a living tree sprouting from the bottom
level for a loft-like, modern tree house ešect; the kitchen's show-stopping design is
highlighted by period lighting and furnishings; and the dining room features Douglas œr
paneling evocative of the wood-covered walls that were popular in the '50s and '60s.
The Cohen Residence
"Mid-century modern design is a vocabulary that has infinite combinations," says
Abramson. "In such, the creative boundaries are wide open." Take, for example,
this new ground-up Trevor Abramson-designed home built in Beverlywood for
Hollywood writer and director Etan Cohen, and his wife, Emily. The 6,000-square-
foot home is complete with three stories (including a finished basement), four
bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. It also boasts an in-home office with a
private screening room for Etan, as well as an art studio for Emily. Its architectural
highlight is a three-story atrium that is accented by steel-framed glass floors and a
living tree sprouting from the bottom level for a loft-like, modern tree house effect.
All of the living areas were placed upstairs to take advantage of the views, which
are only present from the second floor. Meanwhile, the bedrooms are located
on the ground floor. "The second-floor living spaces were conceived as one
open space under a single shed roof," says Abramson. "The roof is typical mid-
century in its aesthetic manifestation. It is a shallow, sloping roof supported by
exposed steel beams, reminiscent of post-and-beam construction."
By layering glass—from the skylights in the sloped roof down
through the semi-translucent walkways and stairwells in the
atrium—natural light is able to permeate every level. The open, light-
filled atrium is another typical mid-century element, with Douglas
fir paneling evocative of the wood-covered walls that were popular
in the '50s and '60s. The interior design department at Abramson
Teiger incorporated mid-century lighting and furnishings to ensure a
cohesive aesthetic. "The couple is a huge fan of famous mid-century
architect Ray Kappe," says
Abramson. "A lot of the
design decisions made in
the home pay tribute to his
striking lines and material
choices. Many of Kappe's
homes still exist around L.A."
photos courtesy of
Jim Bartsch
