The Movie Set

Entrusted with the kitchen restoration of a landmark 1904 Sierra Madre estate originally designed by legendary architects Charles and Henry Greene, our team faced the profound responsibility of honoring an irreplaceable piece of American architectural history. As a prime, pristine example of the ultimate Arts and Crafts movement, every square inch of the home demands strict preservation stewardship. This celebrated property carries immense cultural resonance, serving as a prominent architectural backdrop in the feature film Oppenheimer.

Our design intervention was guided by restraint, focusing on seamless integration rather than modern intervention. To introduce contemporary functionality without disrupting the historic building envelope, we executed minimal, highly strategic alterations to the exterior façade. We introduced one new window and precisely adjusted another, meticulously replicating the original joinery, wood species, and framing details to preserve the structure's historic landmark integrity.

The centerpiece of the interior transformation centers on the home's original Greene and Greene cabinetry. Professionally conserved and restored to their original luster, these beautifully crafted historic elements were integrated into the new layout as proud freestanding furniture pieces. The completed project beautifully harmonizes a 120-year-old architectural legacy with the subtle demands of a working culinary space, demonstrating a profound commitment to heritage preservation and classic California craftsmanship.