A striking midcentury is now up for grabs in Sherman Oaks, California. Originally built in 1947, the home sits tucked away on a gated, oversized lot in the tree-lined Chandler Estates neighborhood. Architect Leonardo Chalupawicz redesigned the home in 1997, and it recently underwent another transformation in 2020 by its current owners, Nicky Buerger, an interior designer and stylist, and Steve Clarke, a creative director at an advertising agency.

The reimagined home rests on a spacious lot in the Chandler Estates neighborhood of Sherman Oaks, California. Built in 1947, the single-story abode has been tenderly cared for over the years, and it underwent a redesign in 1997 and a remodel in 2020.

For the remodel, the couple sought to "create a serene yet practical environment," while retaining the original midcentury aesthetic. "We reimagined the kitchen by preserving the room’s bones, but added contemporary touches such as repainting the cabinet doors," they say. "We also kept the wooden surrounds, but added new hexagonal tiles and countertops."

The 2,300-square-foot interior is flush with original details—including clerestory windows and stacked glass blocks in the airy sitting room near the front entry.

To optimize natural light, the couple fine-tuned the 2,300-square-foot home with an open, free-flowing layout. Upon arrival, a generous foyer leads to a sun-filled sitting area, and the kitchen and living room lie just around the corner. 

The living spaces are seamlessly connected via an open layout that caters to easy entertaining. A row of wood-framed French doors line the back wall, creating an intimate indoor/outdoor connection with the backyard.

Exposed beams span the merged living spaces, complementing the refinished hardwoods and wood-framed French doors that line the back wall in the dining area. "We repurposed original redwood beams and vintage plywood to make new furniture—including bookcases and a bench—as a way to create a connection to the home’s past life," say the couple.

A view from the bedroom wing toward the primary living spaces. Large windows wrap the home, inviting sunlight inside. 

Clerestory windows continue into the kitchen, which features new stainless-steel appliances and quartz countertops. A geometric tile backsplash adds sleek, yet subtle pizzazz.

The home’s three bedrooms are located away from the living areas. The primary bedroom suite offers pool views, a fireplace, dual walk-in closets, and a spa-style bath. The two-and-a-half additional baths are outfitted with designer finishes and original glass blocks that channel daylight.

Original cedar beams take center stage in the dining area, which overlooks the backyard.

In the living room, a central brick fireplace is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. 

In the backyard, a lush lawn awaits—along with a swimming pool and secluded guest cottage, which features a bedroom, bathroom, and well-equipped kitchenette. By infusing warm, soft textures throughout the property, the couple aimed to "create a tranquil, restful space that flows seamlessly from indoors to out." Keep scrolling to see more of the home, currently listed for $1,799,000.

Another fireplace is located in the primary bedroom, which offers direct outdoor access.

The primary bath features a double vanity, as well as an oversized glass shower and soaking tub.

The home’s additional bedrooms also come with en suite baths.

A look at the third bedroom, which is currently set up as a nursery.

The backyard offers a resort-like aesthetic with multiple outdoor gathering areas, plentiful shade, and manicured landscaping.

Steps away from the pool is the guest cottage, which sports a similar aesthetic to the main residence.

A central skylight punctures the wood-clad vaulted ceilings, illuminating the interiors with warm sunshine. Mint-green cabinetry and patterned accents infuse the space with vibrant color, while polished cement floors ground the space.

Edison lights trace the outline of the rear facade, creating a twinkling oasis once the sun sets.

5526 Calhoun Ave in Sherman Oaks, California, is currently listed for $1,799,000 by Olga Crawford of Sotheby’s International Realty – Topanga Brokerage.

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