Bradley Bayou is far from a typical interior designer. Before establishing his studio—based in both Los Angeles and New York City—in 2010, the Texas-born designer worked as a real estate developer, artist, and actor. For years, he evolved in the world of fashion, first helming an eponymous couture collection (and dressing celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Geena Davis, Beyoncé and Anne Hathaway) before becoming the creative director of Halston and, finally, launching a ready-to-wear line with QVC. This rich and eclectic professional path not only allowed Bayou to acquire experience in construction but also helped train his eye and understand the importance of colors, textures, and balance.
Located in the Bird Streets, Bayou’s house is a testament to his multidisciplinary background. Built on a lot of over 15,000 square feet, the 7,500-square-foot ground-up construction “is close to the happenings of the city but feels private,” says Bayou, who designed every detail and imagined every inch of the house to suit his personality, while using sophisticated materials and focusing on craftsmanship.
“The floor plan revolves around indoor/outdoor living—most of the walls are either stone or retractable glass,” says Bayou, who moved in last October with his partner and their dog. “The house is our sanctuary and is completely representative of my ‘world modern’ aesthetic.”
The main living space, which comprises the living room, dining room and expansive chef’s kitchen, connects with the exterior areas where the infinity pool and gardens offer unparalleled city views. In the master suite adorned with a fireplace, a spa bath with a custom sunken tub, heated floors, glass walls open up to a koi pond and a private Zen garden with yoga deck. The lower level hosts an office, a lounge and a bar area that leads to a screening room/theater. “I used stone and glass to blend into the hillside and open up the home to the outdoors,” Bayou says.
“I always wanted to build a house using the same stone that was used for the Alamo (in San Antonio, Texas). I finally got the opportunity!” While he spends most of his time outside to enjoy the warm weather of Los Angeles, Bayou keeps some of his most treasured items inside, such as a Joel Shapiro sculpture, which was created for the Central Park Conservancy utilizing parts of a Central Park bench. Several design pieces were specifically created for the space, including the custom dining table by Bayou; others reflect the owner’s love of vintage such as the pair of 1930s-era lounge chairs.
After designing homes for many of his friends, Bayou finally created a space that is uniquely his. “Having extreme privacy in the middle of the city is the ultimate luxury,” he says. “This is my dream home, but I’m always more excited about the next house I’m building.” bradleybayou.com
