A Tree House–Inspired Kit Home by Prefab Pioneer Rocio Romero Seeks $2.3M in L.A.

Part of the designer’s distinguished LV series, the Harwood Residence spills down a hillside in Studio City.

Aug 12, 2021 - 00:00

A Tree House–Inspired Kit Home by Prefab Pioneer Rocio Romero Seeks $2.3M in L.A.

Part of the designer’s distinguished LV series, the Harwood Residence spills down a hillside in Studio City.

Chilean-American architectural designer Rocio Romero has been hailed as a pioneer of prefab since the debut of her LV series kit homes, which combined affordability, efficiency, and aesthetics. This one, located high on a hilltop in Studio City, Los Angeles—and across the street from Rudolph Schindler’s Roxy Roth Residence—was her first in California. The 3,289-square-foot Harwood Residence was built in 2007 for author and set designer C. Chase Harwood and his partner, Emmy Award–winning costumer designer Joyce Kim Lee.

Perched in the Studio City Hills, the home appears to be a one-level abode from street-view. — Perched in the hills of Studio City, Los Angeles, the prefabricated Harwood Residence—part of designer Rocio Romero’s groundbreaking LV series—appears to be a single story at the street level.
Photo by Forward Media

The three-level prefab’s top floor peeks over the street while the rear of the home spills down a lush hillside. "This home is a modern tree house," says listing agent Michael Tunick. "Not only does the private nature of the views lead to breathtaking moments, but the treetop perspective makes you feel like you’re practically floating."

The current owners—costume designer Joyce Kim Lee and her partner, author C. Chase Harwood, who has also designed sets for an array of hit shows, including <i>The Big Bang Theory </i>and <i>Will & Grace</i><i>—</i>tapped Romero to create an airy abode that prioritized the sensation of treetop living. — The current owners—costume designer Joyce Kim Lee and her partner, author C. Chase Harwood, who has also designed sets for an array of hit shows including *The Big Bang Theory* and *Will & Grace*—tapped Romero to create an airy abode among the treetops.
Photo by Forward Media

Inside, a warm, neutral palette enhances the home’s verdant setting. Wide-plank hardwoods line the floors while natural light bounces off the crisp white walls and ceilings.