Camille + William
How long have you lived in your home?
We’ve lived in our home for 11 years.
What year was the home built?
Our house was built in 1932
How has the home evolved over time? What original details have you preserved or uncovered, and were there any surprising finds during renovations?
Our house has evolved quite a bit over the years. When we first moved in, we loved that the home still had so many original features like the doors, windows, kitchen and bathrooms. Everything was well preserved, except for the lighting. All of the original sconces and other fixtures were missing, so over time we searched for antique fixtures. The first thing we did was strip the 60’s stone facade around the fireplace and discovered the original mantel with Batchelder tile on the hearth. A few years ago we renovated all the bathrooms and laundry room, using timeless materials inspired by our trips to Tuscany. We used terracotta tiles, marble and plaster with unlacquered brass fixtures.
How did you know this home was the one?
I actually went to see the house by myself the fist time, since Will was out of town. It reminded me of the house I grew up in in Hancock Park, and I felt at home. We had lost a few other houses in bidding wars and it became clear that it was because this house was meant to be. It was a big house for just the two of us at first, but now we’ve filled every inch since we’ve had a family.
What room or corner do you spend the most time in, and why?
We spend most of our time in the breakfast room. It’s right off the kitchen so we have most of our meals there. We added French doors that lead to the garden, which are so nice to have open on a Summer morning.
What makes this space feel like “home” to you?
Our house feels like “home” since we’ve put so much love and thought into it. Everything is hand picked and most things have a story. Will and I have really collaborated on almost everything.
What’s the biggest challenge (or most rewarding part) of maintaining a vintage LA home?
The biggest challenge of maintaining a vintage home can be repairing things to make sure it matches the original style. But that’s also the rewarding part. I love restoring the house and making it more beautiful all the time.
What advice would you give someone interested in buying a vintage home in LA?
I say go for it! The craftsmanship, the history and the beauty- new homes will never be the same.
Do your kids have a favorite part of the home?
The kids both love their rooms. I had so much fun creating them. They also love playing in the garden, climbing the olive trees and running in the grass.
3 words to describe your personal style?
Timeless, understated, worldly
What industry are you both in?
I work in fashion. I have a clothing line with my mom called Jane Booke. Will is the head of video content at Ernie Ball.
@janebookestudio
What are your favorite things about living in Los Angeles?
I was born and raised in Los Angeles and have never left. I travel a lot and love to spend time in other places, but I’m always so happy to come home to L.A. You can drive to Malibu and be on a stunning beach or walk through Franklin Canyon and feel like you’re in the mountains. Also, LA has great restaurants and cafes.
Anything you’re working on or anything else that you’d like to share?
We’re always working on something. The best part about an old house is it's never done.
