This LA House Has the Neatest DIY Fireplace, Murphy Bed, and TV-Hiding Art Solution

Name: Emily Brownell, husband, and two small kids, and a dog
Location: Los Angeles, California
Type of home: House
Size: 1500 square feet
Years lived in: 1 year, owned

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: I’m an interior designer returning from maternity leave. We bought our 1940s home when I was in my third trimester and basically only refreshed the kitchen to start. The house has been updated, which is now outdated, but so many times all that is left is are the original floors. We are slowly taking our time to add back character and make it our own. The most recent project was turning a converted garage into a multi-functional space that is our home office, guest bedroom, and TV space. My home is practical since I have two toddlers but we have layered in so many one of a kind vintage treasures with our own light fixtures and of course I love a good vintage rug!

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Layered, curated, intentional.

What is your favorite room and why? Our garage conversion is the one space I decorated without feeling like I had to worry about kids tearing it apart. It feels very me and custom despite being all DIY.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Oh my I have too many found, thrifted, and small shop things but I love my pottery collection from a local artist, jkojima ceramics.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Don’t box yourself in to a style. People’s personalities and interests are usually a bit all over the map and I feel their homes should be too. It feels more authentic and unique when we honor all parts of ourselves rather than try and fit into one style because it’s trending.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

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