1930's Renovated Cottage

Location: Los Angeles

Size: 3,469 square feet (322 square meters); 5 bedrooms, 3½ baths

Year built: 1938

This house located in Los Angeles lured in its current homeowners right from the curb. Both are from New England and fell in love with the mature trees around the house before they even stepped inside.

The 1930s architecture spoke to them as well. “I knew with two small kids we’d never be able to keep up a pristine modern look,” says homeowner Holly Kretschmar, who was attracted to the vintage home’s style.

The architecture reminded both of them of the beachy, relaxed feeling of houses they’d stayed in on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, when they were growing up.

With some work and dedication, they have been able to turn the house into a dream.