3200 Windsor Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90039
$1,899,000 | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,533 Sq. Ft. | Price/Sq.Ft. $1,239 | 5,048 Sq. Ft. Lot | Built in 1954
“Architecture is not just about creating beautiful structures; it’s about enhancing people’s lives and creating spaces that resonate with them.” – Eugene Kinn Choy
Nestled in the hills of Silver Lake, this remarkable mid-century home is like a hidden treasure, tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac that’s just minutes from the Reservoir. Built by pioneering architect Eugene Kinn Choy in 1954, it’s a house that effortlessly combines the best of the mid-century modern era, with clean lines, natural materials, walls of glass, and geometric shapes.
Choy, of course, is a legendary and quintessentially Los Angeles architect. A graduate of USC’s School of Architecture, and just the second Chinese-American to join the AIA, he had a hand in designing many iconic buildings in L.A. including the Cathay Bank building in Chinatown. In addition to numerous public, commercial, and residential buildings, Choy designed his own family home for an impossibly narrow hillside lot in this same Silver Lake neighborhood.
But it wasn’t so easy for Choy and his family to gain acceptance in Silver Lake. He was one of the first non-white residents of the neighborhood due to racial covenants in effect at the time that prohibited the sale of property to “any person not of the Caucasian race” when he sought to build a house for his family there. Industrious as ever, Choy went door to door to seek the approval of every single house in the neighborhood before he was given approval to build his own there in 1949, advancing the door to the Asian American, Latino, and Black communities in the second half of the century.
His innovative creativity in meeting the challenges of his tiny fifty foot wide lot that sloped in two directions were noted in Art and Architecture and Architectural Record. The importance of light and the use of open space highlighted the interior of the home. Wood was a often a dramatic feature of the interior and exterior, and 3200 Windsor is no exception. As Choy put it, “I strive to create designs that withstand the test of time, where they are as relevant and captivating today as they will be in the future.”
Stepping inside, you’ll be immediately struck by preservation of the home’s original charm and character, while also incorporating modern updates and upgrades.
The foyer and open plan living and dining room has a beautiful vaulted ceiling, floor-to-ceiling windows, and doors that let the natural light flood in, and the stunning original redwood paneling exudes warmth.
One of my favorite updates is certainly the new travertine fireplace, which adds a touch of elegance to the space while still remaining true to mid-century aesthetics.
When you slide open those glass doors you’ll be greeted by a patio with built-in benches, creating a vast seating area perfect for both relaxation and prime Silver Lake entertaining.
Notice the beamed wood paneled ceiling with its gigantic skylight.
The brilliant mix of materials, sleek and sexy updates, and the carefully designed lighting create a unique Silver Lake vibe.
Head into the sophisticated kitchen and find custom cabinetry lining, lovely quartzite countertops, and stainless steel top-of-the-line appliances that will make you feel like you’re cooking in a professional-grade kitchen.
Just off the kitchen, the garage has been transformed into a roomy additional living space. It’s been fully finished with a wall of custom closets, laundry units, and easy water hookups making it great for a home office or gym.
The second bedroom is the perfect space. Facing the wisteria-wrapped trellis on one side and clerestory windows for privacy on the other, it’s a versatile room that can serve as an office, a guest room, or a whimsical children’s room where imagination runs wild.
Down the hallway, you’ll find the first of two brand new full bathrooms, complete with all new fixtures, tile, and a Terrazo marble countertop.
The primary bedroom is a haven of tranquility, offering generous space with not one, but two closets.
The en suite bathroom has also been newly updated and features plenty of storage and a great skylight.
“Good design has the ability to elevate the human experience and evoke emotions.” Choy once wrote. And you’ll definitely feel emotional about this home, especially when you head out to the wonderfully private, fenced-in backyard.
Tucked away in the backyard on the hillside is yet another bonus space for anyone in need of a private office, recording studio, or quiet spot to read the day away. It’s like a little secret hideout where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in the simple pleasures of nature.
All this just a stone’s throw from the Silver Lake Reservoir, the meadow, L&E Oyster Bar, Alimento, LAMILL Coffee, and so much more. 3200 Windsor Avenue is a dreamy mid-century modern home of the highest pedigree in Los Angeles’s chicest east side enclaves.
I would love to give you a private tour of 3200 Windsor Avenue in Silver Lake! Call me today at (937) 243-2349 or email me at tatiana.tensen@sothebyshomes.com to schedule a visit.
Listing provided courtesy of Kelly Griffiths and Brandon Keller, Compass.
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