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In the vibrant heart of Hollywood Hills, where celebrity culture intertwines with architectural heritage, Tony and Annie Cavalero set out on an incredible journey to revive their historic home. They purchased this six-bedroom, five-bathroom Spanish residence in 2016, originally crafted by the legendary architect Paul R. Williams. With a past that includes famous occupants like Marlon Brando, the couple was captivated not just by its iconic history, but by the immense potential it held for a glamorous revival. Yet, upon moving in, they quickly realized that the interior was far from the opulence one might expect from such a storied property.
The Allure of History and the Reality of Renovation
As the Cavaleros stepped into their new home, they faced a startling reality: the interior was like a blast from the past, stuck in the 1990s with its bland neutrals and outdated fixtures. “When we bought it, the interior was very nineties, very neutral,” Annie recalls, pointing out the dreary dark kitchen cabinetry and the oversized jacuzzi tub that dominated the primary bathroom. They understood the importance of preserving the home’s unique story while giving it a contemporary aesthetic that sparkled with charm.
With a determination to restore the home to its Hollywood Regency glory, Tony and Annie embarked on the renovation journey armed with creativity and a sharp eye for detail. They began sourcing salvaged doorknobs and period-appropriate hardware, setting the stage for a design that paid homage to the home’s rich history while allowing their personal style to shine through. Each choice, from bold jewel-toned paint colors to striking black-and-white tiles, was intentionally made to reflect the glamour of a bygone era.
Personal Touches and Artistic Collaborations
The couple’s vision extended beyond mere renovation; they aimed to create a space that resonated with their shared identity and values. Annie, a talented jewelry designer, infused her artistic touch into every corner of their home, ensuring that nothing felt random or without significance. “Everything has perspective and point of view and history; everything’s three-dimensional,” she explains, highlighting the thoughtful nature of their design choices.
In collaboration with designer Amber McDermitt, the Cavaleros meticulously planned each space, incorporating custom pieces crafted by local artists and vibrant wallpapers that pay tribute to Paul R. Williams’s iconic designs. They even found a creative way to repurpose leftover wallpaper from a friend’s project, showcasing their resourcefulness and commitment to sustainable design practices. How cool is that?
Every room in the house tells its own story—take the sunroom, for example, adorned with a striking leopard print from a prop house, or the bedroom featuring unique artworks that mirror the couple’s personality, including a playful painting of Arnold Schwarzenegger with the word “SHRED” boldly displayed. These artistic touches create a narrative that feels both lived-in and authentically them.
The Heart of the Home: A Reflective Space
The true magic of the Cavaleros’ home transformation lies in their ability to seamlessly blend the old with the new, crafting a space that is as inviting as it is inspiring. The backyard, designed with the expertise of landscape architect Gerrit Goss, is a haven for entertaining, boasting a pool, spacious gathering areas, and even a mural that pays homage to the home’s rich history.
Reflecting on their journey, Tony and Annie highlight the emotional connection they feel to their home. It’s not just the stunning renovations that make it special; it’s the journey they undertook together, the history they honored, and the memories they created along the way. Tony fondly recalls the first time they stepped inside, feeling an immediate sense of belonging, much like the warm familiarity of a grandparent’s home. “Ever since then, I was like, ‘Well, if any of them is going to be the one, it’s this one,’” he shares.
Ultimately, the Cavaleros’ home is much more than a beautifully renovated property; it’s a rich narrative woven with history, artistry, and personal touches that reflect their shared journey. Through their dedication to breathing new life into a piece of Hollywood history, they’ve created a sanctuary that embodies their love for each other and their passion for storytelling. Isn’t that what home is all about?