In the picturesque Thunderbird Country Estates, a 1952 mid-century home once owned by the Barry family has been masterfully transformed into a modern oasis. The clients, who split their time between Hawaii and Rancho Mirage, purchased this historic property in 2019 and embarked on a renovation journey that honors its storied past while updating it for contemporary living.
Historical Significance
The Thunderbird Estate was originally owned by Robert Barry, a New York congressman instrumental in organizing Dwight Eisenhower's west coast campaign. Over the years, the home welcomed notable guests, including Betty and Gerald Ford. The guest room, humorously dubbed "The Ford Room," pays homage to these visits. The Fords loved the area so much they built their own home nearby. The neighborhood boasts illustrious former residents like Hoagy Carmichael, Lucy and Desi Arnaz, and Ginger Rogers, along with architecturally significant homes by William Cody, A. Quincy Jones, and Howard Lapham.
Vision and Renovation
The first impression of the property revealed a stunning potential obstructed by a low ceiling in the main living area. The house's charm was overshadowed by outdated renovations that deviated from its mid-century roots. The clients and architect agreed that raising the roof of the main living area was essential, setting the stage for the rest of the transformation.
Design Brief and Execution
The clients desired a modern, elegant, and comfortable home with "masculine" finishes - a term humorously used throughout the project led by a female architect. They envisioned a serene, timeless space that embraced the site's natural beauty and favorable climate. The design process focused on a refined palette of materials to create a peaceful and sophisticated atmosphere.
Key renovations included:
- Raising the Roof: Enhancing the main living area with higher ceilings and expansive views.
- Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Installing a large sliding/stacking door for seamless garden access.
- Restoring Original Entry: Moving the entry back to its original location to improve the exterior sequence.
- Redefining Spaces: Adding a floating desk with a black metal screen in the entry and creating a new breakfast terrace with French doors.
- Kitchen Transformation: Combining the side entry and kitchen into a spacious, dark-toned kitchen with a built-in banquette.
- Principal Suite Creation: Merging two small rooms into a grand suite with black fluted walls and new windows and doors.
Landscape Redesign
The landscape overhaul began with the quirky rhombus-shaped pool, inspiring a geometric design theme. The backyard now features a green space for the clients' Norwich Terriers, Mr. Pua and Hoagy Carmichael, bordered by poured-in-place concrete. This area is flanked by citrus trees and a long concrete fire pit. Wide steps lead down to a cactus garden, mature palm trees, and a winding path to the back gate.
Overcoming Challenges
Undertaking this project during a global pandemic presented numerous challenges. Navigating construction regulations, holding remote meetings, and managing material shortages required flexibility and perseverance. Despite these hurdles, the Thunderbird 8 project reached completion, offering the clients a stunning, comfortable home that marries mid-century charm with modern luxury.
Project team
- Jill Lewis Architecture - Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design
- Palm Pacific Construction - Construction works
Caroline Patterson
Caroline is a young, New York-based interior designer and home decor writer, obsessed with textiles and designer furniture. Backed with rigorous training from a prestigious design school, as well as a profound understanding of material quality and fabric care, she offers spot-on advice on how to furnish your place with reliable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing pieces.
