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Mueller Design Inc - Professional Architecture and Interior Design Services

Architecture + Interior Design 

TOLUCA LAKE: An Estate Remodel with a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary style by Mueller Design  

Revitalizing a Timeless Estate for Modern Living

Toluca Lake is a neighborhood known for its rich history, sprawling estates, and an elite community that includes Hollywood’s most celebrated figures. When Mueller Design was commissioned to reimagine this expansive property, the goal was clear: to modernize the estate while honoring its original architectural integrity.

This grand home, originally built in the 1980s, had lost its charm over the years. With an outdated design and fragmented spaces, it no longer suited the vibrant lifestyle of its new owners, a dynamic couple deeply rooted in the music industry. They sought a home that would not only reflect their personal aesthetic but also provide an inspiring and functional environment that complemented their careers and passions.

A Fusion of Old and New: Architectural Vision

Mueller Design’s approach to this project was to seamlessly integrate classic architectural elements with contemporary innovations, ensuring a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. The transformation began with the exterior, where the original stucco facade was revitalized with warm, natural materials to create a more inviting and sophisticated curb appeal.

One of the standout materials used in this project was Jesus Stone, a striking variety of limestone that added texture and depth to the home’s facade. The inclusion of this natural element provided a tactile contrast to the sleek stucco, striking a balance between tradition and modernity. The use of limestone extended beyond the entryway, enhancing key architectural elements throughout the home to establish a cohesive aesthetic.

A Grand Entrance with a Sense of Majesty

A home’s entryway sets the tone for what lies beyond, and at Toluca Lake, it was designed to be nothing short of breathtaking. The original space was dark and uninviting, lacking the drama and grandeur the clients desired. Mueller Design reconfigured this space, incorporating an 18th-century Italian fireplace that not only added an element of historical luxury but also reflected the warmth of the limestone exterior.

The transformation was further accentuated by a vaulted 30-foot ceiling in the living room, which created an airy, expansive atmosphere. Large-scale custom lighting fixtures designed in-house by Mueller Design added a sculptural element to the space, ensuring that the grandeur of the architecture was met with equally stunning details.

A Home Designed for Artists: Unique Spaces That Inspire

With music being at the heart of the homeowners’ lives, it was crucial to incorporate spaces that fostered creativity. Every room was meticulously designed to serve a distinct function while maintaining a consistent design language throughout the home.

The Guitar Room: A Tribute to Musical Mastery

A true showpiece of this estate is the Guitar Room, a carefully curated space dedicated to the client’s extraordinary collection of vintage and contemporary guitars. This gallery-like setting provides both storage and display, ensuring that each instrument is treated as a work of art.

Mueller Design crafted custom-built shelving and integrated lighting to highlight the collection, creating a striking visual impact. The room was further enhanced with acoustically treated walls, allowing it to double as a practice space for impromptu jam sessions. Comfortable, stylish seating was placed throughout to encourage relaxation and creativity.

The Media Room: Moroccan Elegance Meets Hollywood Glamour

Entertainment was a top priority for the clients, and the Media Room was designed to stand apart from the typical screening spaces found throughout Los Angeles. Drawing inspiration from Moroccan design, Mueller Design infused the room with rich fabrics, intricate patterns, and deep, inviting hues.

Custom-designed furnishings upholstered in plush velvets and silks added layers of opulence, while mood lighting set the perfect ambiance for movie nights or intimate gatherings. The integration of state-of-the-art technology, including a hidden projection screen and surround sound system, ensured that this space was as functional as it was visually stunning.

Master Suites: Personal Sanctuaries of Style and Comfort

The primary suites were designed with distinct personalities, each reflecting the unique tastes of the homeowners.

Her Master Bedroom: A Serene Oasis in Cool Blues

Inspired by the calming hues of Mediterranean ceramics, the primary suite exudes a sense of tranquility. Walls adorned with hand-painted blue ceramic tiles set the backdrop for a dreamy, ethereal retreat.

The en-suite bathroom continues this aesthetic, featuring white marble vanities crafted from Venetian Silver Glass, a material that beautifully reflects light to create a luminous effect. Elegant chandeliers and custom-designed fixtures by Mueller Design completed the luxurious feel of this space.

His Master Bathroom: A Timeless New York-Inspired Escape

For the second primary suite, the design was rooted in nostalgia, evoking memories of classic New York architecture. A monochromatic black-and-white palette was chosen, featuring cigar-black and white marbles reminiscent of historic Manhattan residences.

A freestanding soaking tub, dramatic floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and carefully curated lighting added a sense of old-world sophistication. The adjacent Mikas Ebony Wood Walk-in Closet was more than just a wardrobe space—it became a sanctuary where the client could relax, compose music, and escape into creativity. Designed to flow seamlessly from the bathroom, this closet lounge was outfitted with comfortable seating, a display for prized guitars, and even a discreet recording setup.

Custom Lighting and Furniture: The Mueller Design Signature

Lighting plays a crucial role in every Mueller Design project, and the Toluca Lake estate was no exception. Every fixture was designed in-house, ensuring that each piece was not only aesthetically aligned with the space but also functional for various moods and activities.

In addition to lighting, custom furniture was a defining feature of this remodel. Every piece was tailored to the scale and style of the rooms, from plush seating in the media room to intricately detailed cabinetry in the kitchen. Mueller Design’s ability to craft bespoke elements ensured that every inch of the home was curated with precision and purpose.

Lush Exterior Landscaping: Privacy and Serenity

Although the property had limited outdoor space, Mueller Design maximized its potential with thoughtful landscaping. A blend of heavy foliage, mature trees, and layered plantings provided both privacy and aesthetic appeal. Tall hedges and dense greenery shielded the home from neighboring properties, creating a secluded sanctuary in the heart of Toluca Lake.

The backyard, though compact, was transformed into an intimate retreat featuring:

  • A resort-style pool and spa with natural stone accents
  • A cozy fire pit area surrounded by lush greenery
  • A serene meditation garden, perfect for relaxation and reflection

Mueller Design: Transforming Estates with Timeless Vision

Mueller Design has once again demonstrated its ability to breathe new life into historic homes while embracing modern luxury. The Toluca Lake estate remodel is a perfect example of how thoughtful architecture, interior design, and custom craftsmanship can transform a residence into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Whether it’s hillside construction, bespoke interiors, or estate renovations, Mueller Design brings innovation, artistry, and expertise to every project. Explore our portfolio to see more stunning transformations, and let us bring your dream home to life.

Are you ready to elevate your home with unparalleled architecture and design? Contact Mueller Design today to discuss your project and discover how we can create a space that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and vision.