Working together with celebrity interior designer, Nate Berkus, the couple wanted to create an abode that could maximise space and storage without sacrificing style. “Very often, the biggest challenge of a small apartment is storage,” the homeowner says. “Nate addressed that by researching yachts and the manner by which many of these floating vessels can become truly luxurious functional homes.” 

Berkus echoes the sentiment. “Space was at a premium, and we wanted to transform the apartment into somewhat of a ship—maximum storage while still feeling minimal and very international, like our dear clients and their lives.” This was achieved by meticulously measuring all the items and purposefully plotting out where they would be stored. “Once the project was completed, both Lee and I were in awe that we have more clothing and kitchen storage in our LA apartment than we have in our bigger home in Las Vegas,” says Luna. A perfect example of this is the king-size bed. Custom designed by Berkus, it has several built-in compartments. Berkus shares that “hidden behind many walls are closets for everything, from glassware to shoes”.

The one-bedroom apartment retains all the functionality necessary for smaller spaces while exuding an elegant yet cosy feel. “Two words came to mind when we were thinking of the design process,” Luna says. “Efficient and personal.” Contrary to most small spaces, Berkus and the homeowners resisted the urge to open up the kitchen; instead, French windows were installed that open into the living room and consequently, the view. “The result is quite brilliant!” he effuses. The highlight of the kitchen is the gorgeous black and gold La Cornue stove, paired with shaker style cabinetry and more gold accents, that gives a French countryside vibe rather than a condo feel.

“The main concern was to retain the elegance and quality of the renovation and design, while bridging a multi-cultural style that would speak to both homeowners,” says Berkus. “Plus, maximise storage and provide a soft place to land between their extensive travel.” With a mix of sentimental items, artwork collected over the years and poignantly purchased new additions, the home is full of beautiful design paradoxes. The chevron parquet flooring, vintage urn lamps and gilded mirror add that old world charm while mid-century lighting such as the 1960s Arlus chandelier and the 1950s Italian brass and enamel green wall sconces in the bedroom lend a nice contrast. “A mix of periods and styles make a home feel timeless to me. We worked with many vintage and antiques dealers from all over the globe. We wanted the design to feel well-travelled, eclectic and unique,” the designer adds.

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When asked about some of his favourite pieces, Luna shares: “A vintage Austrian Chiffonier from 1830 juxtaposed with a modern pivot sconce in brass by Christopher Gentner at the entryway. This is the prologue to our LA home. It immediately tells a story of an unexpected and yet perfect pairing.”

The wildcard was the French, Jean Royère-inspired coffee table from the 1980s. Made of travertine and metal, the funky and unusual piece of furniture was a bone of contention. “Lee and I could not agree on this,” shares Luna. “I loved it. He didn’t. Nate finally stepped in to break the tie and insist that it is the right choice. Seeing it with all the other pieces in our apartment, Lee agrees that is indeed the right choice!”

Berkus describes the design process with Luna and Imperial as being “magical”. He explains, “There was no ego involved. It was about having the best idea win, every time.” Luna expresses the same sentiments. “He always made us feel that we were in good hands every step of the way. Nate and every member of his team took the time to truly understand how Lee and I live, from the moment we wake up to greet the world to the time we say goodnight, Nate wanted our apartment to meet and if possible exceed all the functional expectations we had of our new home.”

Taking into consideration the flow of their day is best reflected in the mindfully designed lighting plan. “Light switches and controls were not just randomly placed; they were choreographed,” says the homeowner. “We walked through the space and were asked which areas of the space we would like to illuminate as we entered. We were also made aware that with a spectacular city view, there are times that we may want the view by itself to illuminate the space and therefore have lighting that enhances that feature.”

When asked what his favourite part of the home is, Luna declares: “Nate has made it so difficult to choose a favourite space! From the marble sink in the bathroom which was carved from a single slab of stone, to the unexpected sofa on the balcony which extends our living space and is the perfect meditation spot every morning, being in our LA apartment feels like we are living in a perfectly appointed suite at one of the finest hotels in the world! The only difference is we get to call it home.”

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