When we got the call to stage an artist’s retreat (or compound, as the realtor is calling it) in the NELA neighborhood of Montecito Heights, we were intrigued. We know someone who lives in the area, and we like the rolling hills and open space that’s visible from these properties. The duplex we were to stage in the next day or so was a two-bedroom, two-bath space with a detached studio/office building. Surrounded by a huge, flat side yard, the corner property had been completely remodeled and all it needed was some personality.

We brought in a small-scale sofa with Mid Century modern lines, a Plycraft lounge chair and an MCM coffee table (from Pepe’s Furniture in Echo Park). Some art, a vintage lamp, and a few pillows and throws later, what was once a little stark felt cozy and lived in.