Holiday Vibes at Home

New constructions don’t always mean contemporary design. For Shlomi Sfadia, owner of SLS Properties Inc., this property – which sits on an 836-square metre site in the charming, sought-after neighbourhood of Valley Village in Los Angeles – had to reflect the classic elegance of French architecture. He translated this creative vision by incorporating symmetrical façades, pitched roofs and intricate detailing. The bucolic charm sets it apart from the typical homes in the region. “In my career in development, I always strive to push the envelope and create homes that stand out from the norm,” says Sfadia. “My goal is to introduce architectural styles that are rarely seen in the greater Los Angeles area. For this home, I wanted to capture the essence of French countryside charm, ensuring that the moment someone walks through the door, they feel as if they’ve stepped into an elegant estate.”

The home features natural materials like stone and wood, custom millwork, and arched doorways, creating a refined yet inviting atmosphere

Moving from one space to the other is effortless with the home’s seamless indoor-outdoor flow

The house was sold pre-completion, off-market. It serves as a full-time residence, but Sfadia’s goal was to craft an atmosphere that makes the owners feel like they are on holiday every day. The outdoor areas are particularly important in that sense; a standout feature, the pool cabana provides a serene retreat for alfresco entertaining. Meanwhile, the manicured lawns create a lush, picturesque setting. Inside, too, relaxation and fun guided many design decisions. For example, the media room is moody and cosy with its green plaster walls. “Typically, French-style homes lean heavily on classic, compartmentalised layouts, which can feel overly traditional and don’t always align with the open, flowing spaces that today’s homeowners seek,” says Sfadia. “I wanted to preserve the authentic French feel while ensuring the home offered a layout that felt spacious, functional and well-suited to modern living.” Moving from one space to the other is effortless with the home’s seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

Natural materials like stone, wood, custom millwork and arched doorways reflect authenticity and timeless elegance throughout. In the main shower, handmade green Moroccan zellige tiles bring texture and an artisanal feel. In the powder room, the deep burgundy wine-red plaster walls add a sense of drama and warmth. “One of the most memorable moments during the build was when we were finalising the kitchen’s stone backsplash,” remembers Sfadia. “This type of stone is usually used in exterior spaces, but I was determined to bring that rustic, French countryside charm indoors.” And while several people questioned his choice, Sfadia was convinced that it would make the home feel as though it had aged gracefully over time. 

“When it was finally installed, it completely transformed the space,” he says. “That moment reinforced my belief that, sometimes, taking risks with materials and design choices is what truly makes a home special.”