Simon Cowell, the ex-CEO of Bare Escentuals, Inc., took a cue from the cosmetic brand for his new home: bare, minimal, essential. The bachelor wanted a refuge from his busy travel schedule – nothing flashy. Just simple.

He contacted John Lum Architecture who embarked on a gut renovation. They expanded the footprint and added a new roof deck to take advantage of the bucolic views. The architects also infused a restrained color palette of black and white and kept furnishings and architectural details minimal. Everything was thought of as necessary. The superbly minimal kitchen plays with straight lines and right angles. While the living area is laid back with warm white furnishings, and the master bath is slightly monastic with its oversized tub and rain-like shower head.

In a reversal of a traditional layout, the master bedroom is sited on the lower level overlooking a private courtyard. The architects placed living room, kitchen and dining areas, above with direct access to the roof deck. They also installed the black-trimmed staircase that links the levels, tying in the color palette and the minimal design.

Architecture and interior by John Lum Architecture
Interior furnishings by Simon Cowell
Photography by Paul Dyer