Butterfly-Roofed House in L.A. Wings Its Way Onto the Market for $2.9M

by Kathleen Willcox

If you’ve been wishing for a unique slice of Southern California, this might be it. An architecturally distinct home, topped with an eye-catching butterfly roof, has landed on the market for $2,89,000.

The four-bedroom, four-bath abode sprawls across 3,038 square feet on a thoughtfully landscaped, 7,527-square-foot lot. A one-car garage is included with the home, which was built in 2001.

This property offers panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and majestic canyons. It is tucked into the center of Silver Lake, one of L.A.’s most sought-after neighborhoods. The area offers a small-community feel but with big-city conveniences.

“The home is a stone’s throw from some of Silver Lake’s best eateries and is one of the most desired neighborhoods to live in,” says listing agent Anthony Stellini, of Compass.

A modern escape awaits in Silver Lake.
Gavin Cater

A light but cozy nest just outside of L.A.
Gavin Cater

Iconic views by day and night
Gavin Cater

A butterfly roof makes it memorable.
Gavin Cater

Wake up to this serene view.
Gavin Cater

Architectural gem

The location and size set this home apart, but its architectural design is what makes it such a compelling buy, especially “for someone creative,” Stellini notes.

Known as the Payne residence, the home was built in 2001 by Christopher Payne, of FIN Architecture. He built it for himself— a highly personal project, with every detail considered and beautifully polished. (The home has since changed hands.)

The dwelling’s most distinct detail is its wing-like roof that appears poised for flight. The interior design embodies a similar quality.

A colorful terrazzo entryway has polished-concrete floors that continue throughout the house. The kitchen is outfitted with ultradurable and chef-friendly Caesarstone countertops.

This modern, airy home’s generous deck, expansive Los Angeles vistas, and perfect barbecue setup make it an entertainer’s dream.

The house abounds with wall-to-wall windows that usher in loads of natural light and views of the property’s private gardens.

A Japanese soaking tub and sunken shower make the spacious master suite extra-inviting.

Artists and remote workers will be particularly charmed by the home’s freestanding live-work studio, which has vaulted ceilings, Fleetwood pocket sliding doors, and a private deck.

“I love the style of this home,” Stellini says. “The finishes really bring the home together—from the terrazzo entry to the cement and cork flooring to the plywood ceilings. The best part: the breathtaking living room with views of L.A. … It really is a stellar residence.”