This Petite Highland Park House Was Inspired by Resorts in Oaxaca and Ojai
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom home was completely transformed.
Gavin Cater
When Karan and Sapna Aggarwal, the married couple and design duo behind Los Angeles design firm Bungalowe, bought their Spanish-style house in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, the space was in dire need of renovation. “Originally a modest one-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling, the house had fallen into disrepair with outdated features and a cramped layout that did not maximize its potential,” Sapna explains.
Gavin Cater
A big transformation was required, and the design duo had to reimagine the space while infusing their own flair and design sensibilities. “Our primary goal was to transform the house into a harmonious blend of modern comfort and timeless elegance, while preserving its Spanish-style architecture, Sapna says. “We envisioned a home that exudes warmth, tranquility, and a connection to nature.”
Gavin Cater
The main inspiration points for the home’s redesign were two beautiful accommodations from the couples’ travels—Grana B&B in Oaxaca and the Ojai Valley Inn. “These experiences influenced our choice of materials, color palettes, and architectural details, aiming to recreate a sense of relaxation and luxury within our own space,” Sapna adds.
Gavin Cater
Gavin Cater
Sapna says the renovation focused on creating functional spaces that flow seamlessly. Since they were working within such a small footprint, they had to put a lot of thought and intention into the floor plan and layout, plus the interior design. “It’s always challenging to make a small space flow so effortlessly, and Karan did a fantastic job designing the home to seamlessly lend itself to two bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and an office from its humble beginnings as a one-bedroom, one-bathroom house.”
Gavin Cater
One of the biggest changes was moving the entire kitchen to the front of the home for better accessibility. In the kitchen, they integrated authentic Spanish-style elements like Saltillo tile flooring and hand-painted tiles.
Gavin Cater
The bathrooms were redesigned with distinctive features like half-tiled walls juxtaposed with spa-like plastered surfaces, which creates a bespoke and inviting atmosphere, Sapna adds.
Gavin Cater
And while the newly renovated interiors are undoubtedly striking, the outdoor space is really the star. They redesigned the outdoor area around an original river rock pond, which makes for a serene retreat with gorgeous city views and enough space for entertaining.
Gavin Cater
“The magic of this lot, however, has to be the outdoor space,” Sapna explains. “Even at 3,300 square feet, this lot had an expansive yard that was begging for a true California-style indoor-outdoor vibe. We were determined to create an environment where the indoors and outdoors blend harmoniously. From the lounge area under a majestic tree with hanging lanterns to the dining table overlooking stunning city vistas and the terraced garden, every aspect was meticulously planned to enhance the living experience.”
Gavin Cater
The renovation progressed smoothly, but the couple encountered a few hiccups—mostly the usual challenges that come with restoring a historic property. But the design duo was able to pay homage to the home’s original architecture, while also giving it the updates it so desperately needed. And they’re so thrilled with the finished design.
“It exceeds our expectations in every way,” Sapna explains. “The seamless integration of historical charm with modern amenities creates a home that not only reflects our personal style but also honors the architectural heritage of the neighborhood. It’s a space that truly feels like a sanctuary, offering both comfort and elegance.”
