A countryside house designed for a dose of joie de vivre.

“When people walk into the homes I've built, I want them to feel transported to another destination," says Shlomi Sfadia, founder of SLS Properties Inc. His latest 5,500-square-foot home project in Valley Village achieved just that, bringing the charm of the French countryside to a quiet Los Angeles neighbourhood.  

Located in the heart of Valley Village, the house combines traditional French architectural influences—symmetrical façades, pitched rooflines, and intricate limestone brickwork—with the openness and flow that today’s homeowners desire.  

“French-style homes often lean towards compartmentalized layouts, but I wanted to preserve that authenticity while ensuring the home felt functional and airy,” Sfadia explains. Inside, natural materials like stone, wood, and plaster bring warmth and texture to the space, while a neutral palette with earthy greens nods to the tranquillity of the French countryside.  

The kitchen, a standout feature, is anchored by a bold stone backsplash—a material more commonly used outdoors. “I wanted the home to feel as though it had aged gracefully over time, just like the centuries-old homes in France,” says Sfadia. “When the stone backsplash was installed, it completely transformed the space. It felt like stepping into a countryside estate rather than a newly built home in Los Angeles.”

Thoughtful details can be found throughout. Handmade Moroccan Zellige tiles in the bathrooms, plaster walls in the media room, and deep burgundy plaster in the powder room all contribute to its layered aesthetic. 

Outside, pea gravel pathways, a pool cabana, and manicured lawns create an atmosphere of understated luxury.  

The five-bedroom, six-and-a-half-bathroom home is designed with modern living in mind. Its open floor plan allows for seamless indoor-outdoor flow, making it ideal for both everyday comfort and entertaining. “I wanted to create an atmosphere where the owners would feel like they’re on holiday every day.”

Attention to craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the reclaimed railroad ties framing the property to the clay roof tiles and Roman clay wall finishes. Even the lighting was carefully considered, with a mix of statement fixtures and traditional designs chosen to enhance the home’s character.  

The staging by Francesca Grace Home and styling by Studio Elico further elevate the design. Carefully curated antique-inspired and contemporary furniture pieces complement the home’s blend of French elegance and modern practicality, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and lived-in.  

“For this home," he concludes. "I wanted to capture the essence of French countryside charm, ensuring that the moment someone walks through the door, they feel as if they’ve stepped into an elegant estate in the French countryside."