Modern Home + Living

Less than a decade after arriving in the U.S., this maverick designer and entrepreneur from the south of France has piloted the launch of two fashion industry phenomena—with Von Dutch Originals, followed by his own designer line, Ed Hardy.  His style is so distinctive that it has given rise to, not just a clothing line, but a complete lifestyle brand, inspired by his casual-meets-luxury street couture. MH+L was given a privileged peek into the private home that, for Audigier, plays such an integral role in forming his own signature lifestyle. A poignant example of life imitating art, the house is infused with the same elusive “je ne sais quoi” for which his fashions are now world famous.

His is a two-story, beautifully landscaped residence within the Hancock Park area of Los Angeles. “It’s a beautiful neighborhood,” Audigier says, which provides himself and his family with a great quality of life. “Being first and foremost a family man, and father to four children,” he says, “I greatly appreciate the sense of security that living in a safe area affords.” 

The interior design aesthetic attests to Audigier’s talent for seamlessly fusing traditional European style with a more radical, “American” spirit of experimentalism. He begins by adopting an underwhelming color palette—richly-saturated, sophisticated tones, primarily set in matte finishes and plush upholstery—to ground each of the separate spaces. Classic, heavy draperies and subdued lighting fixtures work in combination to assuage the hurried mind and soothe the senses, creating an atmospheric ease throughout the house. Other timeless elements, such as intricate relief ceilings, classic crystal chandeliers, ornate moulding and inlaid details, are incorporated as visual cues to further invoke an old-world air of distinction. 

When indoors, Audigier likes to spend most of his time in the living room, either playing together with his kids or just taking some time out to relax and unwind. When in need of a private moment or a peaceful retreat, he also asserts, “It’s a great place to sit back and smoke a cigar after a busy day.”

In addition to its striking interiors, the property includes a large outdoor area, which Audigier has primarily purposed as an amazing recreational space where he and his kids can hang out and unwind together. The stunning backyard enclosure surrounds a mosaic-tiled pool at its centre, flanked by dual-facing sundecks, which then lead into a shaded, open-air relaxation lounge and sitting room. At the far end of the pool, cobalt-colored steps lead out of the water and onto palm-shaded lawns and gardens. A multi-level children’s clubhouse, complete with sandbox and playground equipment, is neatly tucked behind.

Needless to say, with a fully-fixtured outdoor kitchen and bar area, the airy and stylish outside living space also provides an ideal setting for entertaining guests. It easily accommodates larger groups, and functions wonderfully as a party venue during the summer months. Here also, Audigier frequently welcomes family and friends to enjoy big, informal Sunday gatherings together. Because, if you ask the man himself, the real key to making this house his home, is being able to surround himself with the people he loves.