A meticulously restored 1937 Streamline Moderne home designed by renowned architect William E. Meyer has hit the market in Los Angeles' coveted Los Feliz neighborhood for $3.49 million. The architectural gem, known as the Ames Residence, spans 2,715 square feet and sits on a generous 12,555-square-foot lot in the Franklin Hills enclave.
The renovation was completed in 2025 by husband-and-wife design team Bobby Espinosa and Erica Vilardi-Espinosa, who have built a reputation for carefully restoring historic Los Angeles homes. The designers maintained the home's original architectural character while thoughtfully updating it for contemporary living, incorporating white oak floors throughout and fresh tile work that complements the building's Art Deco heritage.
Located at 2005 Ames Street, the four-bedroom, five-bathroom home features an open-concept living room at its heart, with the bedrooms arranged around this central gathering space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding pocket doors seamlessly connect the interior to a private patio and lush landscaped yard, embodying the quintessential California indoor-outdoor lifestyle that buyers seek in this climate.
The renovation preserved the home's landmark-quality design elements while adding modern functionality throughout. Both the flooring and cabinetry showcase beautiful white oak craftsmanship, creating a cohesive aesthetic that honors the building's 1930s origins. The updated kitchen and bathrooms blend period-appropriate details with contemporary conveniences.
Architect William E. Meyer, who originally designed this Los Feliz residence, is perhaps best known for his work on the iconic Lane Wells Building in Huntington Park. His Streamline Moderne style, characterized by horizontal lines, curved corners, and nautical-inspired elements, represents a distinctly American interpretation of the Art Deco movement that flourished in the 1930s.
The renovation team of Bobby Espinosa and Erica Vilardi-Espinosa has previously worked on a series of historic Los Angeles properties, beginning with a 1931 Tudor Revival home. Their approach focuses on preserving architectural heritage while meeting the needs of modern families, a philosophy clearly evident in their treatment of the Ames Residence.
The property's location in the Franklin Hills area of Los Feliz places it in one of the neighborhood's most desirable sections, just moments from highly-rated schools including Franklin Avenue Elementary. The area offers easy access to the shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that make Los Feliz a sought-after destination for buyers seeking both historical character and urban convenience.
Bennett Hirsch of the Sandler & Hirsch Group holds the listing for this exceptional property. The home represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Los Angeles architectural history that has been lovingly restored to meet contemporary standards while preserving its distinctive 1930s character. Staging for the listing was provided by Pride of Place, showcasing how the restored spaces can accommodate modern living while celebrating their historical significance.
