What Style is this House / Fourplex?

[Ryan Byrne]

I am hoping a contractor can share some knowledge here. I am interested in this property:

[IMG]http://i59.tinypic.com/2jadutv.jpg[/IMG] http://i59.tinypic.com/2jadutv.jpg

What style would you call this house with the box frame, flat roof and wood vertical shingles around the sides?  I don't like it at all. Can this be fixed or "pretty'd" for something reasonable.  

Home is in Orange County, CA.

Thanks.

[Account Closed]

From the picture I can't tell if that's a true mansard. Do you have a picture that shows a close up of the vertical shingles?  They don't look architectural or structural from the picture.  Rather they look like a decorative attempt with shake (or fake shake) on box construction. The exterior walls don't look high enough to accommodate a mansard roof or any special feature, since there's no attic.  If it's decorative, you can rip it off, repair/replace the stucco and go modern.  Windows and doors can be replaced to fit a modern style pretty affordably. While your at it, cover that brick fireplace to match your final exterior texture (stucco or concrete).

IMO it looks like a great So Cal property to rehab with a combo of retro (50-60s) and modern elements, much of which can be done cost effectively.  Tenants will love it.  Of course, the numbers have to work.