In a recent feature with *Architectural Digest*, Melanie Lynskey and Jason Ritter opened the doors to their newly transformed Los Angeles home, showcasing the personalised touches that distinguish their vibrant abode. The couple, who married in 2020 and welcomed their daughter in 2018, have worked diligently to create a living space that resonates warmth and comfort, perfectly suited for family life.
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Spanning a substantial 3,200 square feet, the home has undergone a meticulous redesign with the assistance of local designer Jason Martin. Lynskey, best known for her role in *Yellowjackets*, expressed her desire to maintain the innate charm of the property while infusing it with a more inviting atmosphere. “The house itself has a lovely feeling, and it’s so warm,” she shared, recalling that despite its cheerful potential, “there was this cold tile on everything.”
Determined to evoke a cozier environment, Lynskey began the redesign journey herself by renovating the kitchen. However, she found her enthusiasm tempered by uncertainty regarding the rest of the home. It was only after consulting with Martin that she recognised his ability to embrace her vision and enhance it further, transforming her initial confusion about various spaces into functional, joyful areas.
One particular challenge was a small, ambiguous room situated downstairs. After much deliberation, the couple decided to install a built-in daybed, providing a relaxing nook with views of the garden. Lynskey has since claimed this vibrant red-hued haven as her personal retreat, where she enjoys reading scripts. “These are neutrals to her,” Martin quipped about her affinity for bold colours, which set a lively tone for the room.
The living room also posed a recurring challenge for Lynskey. Frustrated with the layout, she physically rearranged the furniture several times without success. With Martin’s expertise, however, the area was transformed into a hub of comfort, which perfectly met the family’s needs for relaxation and game nights—a primary focus for the redesign.
Jason Ritter, while acknowledging his partner’s creative prowess, admitted to stepping back from most design decisions. “I have zero creativity in this realm,” he jokingly stated, likening his imaginative capacity to “the white nothing area in *The Matrix*.” However, when it came to the dining room lighting, he was invited to assist in resolving a disagreement between Lynskey and Martin. Without knowing the designers behind each option, he ultimately selected Martin’s choice of pink Murano glass chandeliers, showcasing his growing investment in the design process.
Beyond aesthetics, Lynskey’s connection to her roots is vividly displayed through an impressive art collection primarily sourced from New Zealand. The artwork, featuring the talents of Māori and Pacific Island artists, serves as a poignant reminder of her heritage. “When I look at it, I see the hills outside of Wellington or people with moko tattoos—things that just make me instantly think of home,” she explained.
Adding to the home’s heartfelt character is Lynskey’s curated fabric collection, which has been thoughtfully integrated into lampshades, cushions, and other decorative elements throughout the residence. The couple clearly values the significance behind these choices, as Lynskey remarked, “It’s lovely to feel like the whole house has meaning now.”
The tour not only highlights the couple’s design choices but also reflects their collective commitment to creating a nurturing environment for their seven-year-old daughter. By blending personal history with innovative design, Lynskey and Ritter have successfully crafted a home that encapsulates their family’s story and style.
To explore more about the couple’s beautifully curated space and view additional photographs, readers can visit *Architectural Digest’s* website for the full feature.