Southbay HOME I 2022

a publication of southbay magazine

SOUTHBAY.GOLDENSTATE.IS

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J E N C A S K E Y G R O U P. C O M

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

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Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

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INSIDE

FEATURES

34

UP & AWAY For architect and builder Asia Zdziarska, every project is personal—none more so than the recent remodel of her family’s Hermosa Beach home.

50

LESS IS MORE A creative collaboration proves maximizing your living space doesn’t always mean building a bigger home.

66

WORTH THE WAIT A local Palos Verdes family transformed a little fixer on a sought-after street into an idyllic home—one step at a time.

90

NATURAL CONNECTION Seeking a Japanese architectural element for their new home, a Manhattan Beach resident and his family find the ideal firm to make the wish a reality.

112

66 50

24

SOUTHBAY HOME II 2022

FULL HOUSE A South Bay couple design a home with their family’s next generation in mind.

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Gated Portuguese Bend This one-level, European Farmhouse embodies Portuguese Bend; space, privacy and natural beauty. Sweeping ocean views, 3,500 square feet, 3 bedrooms, pool, spa, guest house, and expansive grounds. Designed by renowned architect Edward Carson Beall, this custom villa is spectacular! $4,500,000

INSIDE ALSO 31

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

106 TRAVEL

Main Squeeze

IN THE MOOD

46

ESSENTIALS Patio Perfect

62

After two years of staying close to home, I’m finally ventur-

ARTISANS Stacy Wong

Oceanside Style

154 FINAL OFFER

AND… 44

ing out into the world again. Even with short weekend trips to Oceanside, Palm Springs or Santa Barbara, I find myself

Trends & Tips

78

inspired by all the new design trends that popped up during

ESSENTIALS

From Local Designers

Down to Earth

the pandemic. There’s a fresh and forward-thinking energy to design. Inviting palettes, unusual textures, locally sourced

MOODBOARDS

82

LEGACY

art, enhanced communal spaces both indoors and out … these

Architect Paul Revere

elements reveal a desire to push the envelope further and wel-

Williams

125

DESIGN SHOWCASES The South Bay’s Top Home Professionals

come in the post-pandemic era of living. It’s exciting to see so much creativity springing from a challenging period. Now’s the time to get out and soak it all in.

102 MEDIA Room & Board

Our spring issue of Southbay HOME offers many inspirational design moments, from stunning local homes to stylish weekend getaways. We’re also happy to introduce Moodboads, a brandnew feature of the magazine showcasing the design trends and tips of several South Bay designers. If you’re considering an interior makeover or aspire to begin a new build, we hope you

62

consider one of our talented local professionals to make your vision a reality.

Darren Elms

ON THE COVER Laney LA Project Photographed by Joe Fletcher

SOUTHBAY HOME II 2022

27

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

PUBLISHER

Darren Elms

Amy Tetherow

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

amy@thegoldenstatecompany.com

424-220-6338 Michelle Villas ADVERTISING Director of Brand Partnerships | Marcie Gutierrez

COPY EDITOR Laura Watts

424-220-6337 marcie@thegoldenstatecompany.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ajay Peckham, Yuiko Sugino

Director of Brand Partnerships | Erika Carrion

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

erika@thegoldenstatecompany.com

310-897-2424 Michele Garber, Amber Klinck, Jennie Nunn, Anne M. Russell

Director of Brand Partnerships | Jen Turquand

PHOTOGRAPHERS

jen.turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com

424-220-6335 Siri Berting, Ivan Feign, Joe Fletcher, Tameka Jacobs, Manolo Langis, Kara Mickelson, Shane O’Donnell, Lauren Pressey, Deborah Tracey, Evan Wong, Stacy Wong

SOUTHBAY IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY

MANAGING PARTNERS Charlie Koones

Todd Klawin

MARKETING & OPERATIONS Partner/Brand Publisher | Emily Stewart Partner/Managing Director, Media & Analytics | Warren Schaffer Director of Digital | Charles Simmons Digital Marketing | Paul Fisher Operations Director | Allison Jeackjuntra Accounting | Janet De La Cruz, Tanisha Holcomb To learn more about us, visit thegoldenstatecompany.com.

No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit.

TO OUR READERS Southbay HOME welcomes your feedback.

Please send letters to: Reader Response Department, Southbay HOME Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Email: info@goldenstate.is or phone: 310-376-7800. Subscriptions are $29 per year.

200 N. Pacific Coast Highway., Suite 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 Tel 310-376-7800 | Fax 310-376-0200 | goldenstate.is | southbay.goldenstate.is

28

SOUTHBAY HOME II 2022

TEN YEARS OF LOVE

10TH ANNIVERSARY • MAY 2 2 • MB PIER • JOIN OUR FIGHT AGAINST CANCER AT TOURDEPIER.COM

FI R S T I M P R E S S I O N S

MAIN SQUEEZE ZEST UP YOUR HOME WITH LEMONY KITCHEN RECIPES AND TABLE DÉCOR.

WRITTEN, PHOTOGRAPHED & PRODUCED BY KARA MICKELSON

When the world feels topsy-turvy, we are reminded of the time-honored saying: “If life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” We think that’s perfect advice as we relax into the season after two stressful years. It’s a “take the good with the bad” approach while making the best of any situation.

Lemons symbolize light and energy, guiding us toward harmony and balance. The color lemon is often associated with the warmth of the sun, freshness, happiness and cheer. It’s also a noble color that draws in our focus, highlighting what’s in front of us.

These tart fruits with a bright, sunshiny color remind us to look for solutions and make the best of what life gives us. They are also the perfect

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

31

SPARKLING LYCHEE LEMONADE Makes approximately 4¾ cups

Refreshing, tropical and satisfying, this is sure to be your go-to lemonade recipe. The lychee syrup provides just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart lemons. Add the seedless lychees to each drink—like nature’s version of boba—or save them for an exotic fruit salad or breakfast fruit bowl.

1 (8.1-ounce) can seedless lychees in syrup (found in Asian or specialty markets) ¼ cup fine white baker’s or caster sugar 1½ cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 8 lemons) 2 cups sparkling mineral water, or more as desired ice as needed 1 whole lemon, ¼-inch-thick slices fresh thyme sprigs, one per drink as garnish 1 cup seedless lychees, optional Strain lychee syrup into a pitcher or tall container, reserving lychees. Stir sugar into lychee syrup until fully dissolved. Stir in lemon juice. Chill in refrigerator for two hours or overnight. Add sparkling water to pitcher just before serving. Taste and add additional sugar or lemon juice as desired. Pour into a glass filled with ice and garnish with fresh-sliced lemons, thyme sprigs and lychees if using.

Tip: To get the most juice from the lemons, roll them on a hard, flat surface. While rolling, add medium pressure with the palm of your hand to break up the pulp and release more juice. Cut the lemons horizontally down the center. Place half of a cut lemon into a lemon press or hand-juicer. Strain out the seeds.

Grow your own: Diana Heffernan Schrader, founder of Palos Verdes School Gardens, provided the fresh lemons for our photographs. She recommends planting a lemon tree to reap the benefits of this fresh fruit while skipping the headache of sprouting seeds. A potted dwarf lemon tree can thrive on a sunny patio or in a small space and will provide a generous supply of fresh lemons. Meyer lemons, a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange, provide an extra sweet and complex lemon flavor and are less acidic.

32

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

addition to freshen up drinks, add a burst of

LEMON, GARLIC & SHALLOT VINAIGRETTE Makes ½ cup

flavor to homemade vinaigrette and spark joy on the table as an arrangement or pop of color.

Bottled vinaigrette will never measure

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

up to this homemade version. It’s ready

1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper

BRIGHT SUNNY DAZE

in a flash and can be made up to three

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Our table design draws inspiration from dazzling

days in advance.

sunshine on our California coast. The Amina

Add vinegar and lemon to a glass pitcher

Portuguese place setting and copper cutlery

1 tablespoon sherry vinegar

or medium bowl. Slowly whisk in mustard

radiate varied hues of warm sand tones, the sea

1 tablespoon white vinegar

until fully combined. Whisk in olive oil,

and iridescent coral. Repurposed placemats were hand-painted with Soft Buttercup yellow by Behr.

Delicate ranunculus punctuate bright yellow nap-

(champagne or apple cider) 1 tablespoon plus 1½ teaspoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

about a tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated. Whisk in shallot, garlic, garlic powder, black pepper, white pepper

kins, and shades of yellow florals and fresh-picked

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as

lemons complete the cheerful design.

¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon mild olive oil

desired. Refrigerate. Can be made up to

1 tablespoon minced shallot

three days in advance. Whisk before serv-

GET THE LOOK:

(about 1 small shallot)

Amina plates/bowl, Crate & Barrel; copper cut-

1 medium garlic clove, minced

lery and cotton yellow napkins, Cost Plus World

1/8 teaspoon granulated garlic powder

ing. Drizzle on salad, white fish or your favorite cooked vegetables.

Market; Soft Buttercup by Behr paint, Home Depot. ¢

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

33

34

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

UP & AWAY

FOR ARCHITECT AND BUILDER ASIA ZDZIARSKA, EVERY PROJECT IS PERSONAL—NONE MORE SO THAN THE RECENT REMODEL OF HER FAMILY’S HERMOSA BEACH HOME. WRITTEN BY MICHELE GARBER PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING, IVAN FEIGN & LAUREN PRESSEY

36

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

S

eamlessly fusing aesthetics and function is

The early seeds of Asia’s personality were planted

Asia Zdziarska’s forte. Her signature minimal-

during these formative years. She has always been

ist yet approachable style is informed by her

extremely creative yet simultaneously pragmatic. Her

international perspective. Having lived on four

ability to balance these two symbiotic yet opposing

continents, Asia is a citizen of the world—or, as she

traits has often defined her diverse pursuits and moti-

often quips, a “serial immigrant.”

vated her to become both an architect and a builder.

She is also a mother of three and a successful

“I’m pretty creative in all sorts of ways,” she shares.

entrepreneur with her own architecture and building

“I think creativity is very broad. Creativity has to be in

firm, archemy.LA. Her path to success hasn’t always

all parts of your life. But I’m also very practical.”

been circuitous. But her story is compelling, and it is still being written.

Born in Cold War-era Poland, Asia and her parents were refugees who fled their communist homeland when she was just 7 years old. Leaving with only a

Asia met her husband, Alek, while in college. Alek’s family had also escaped communist Poland, though he was born in South Africa. The two married and started a family.

Asia was working in marketing at an IT firm and

handful of belongings and a few black-market dollars

realized she loathed corporate life. She dreamed of

stashed inside snacks, their harrowing journey ulti-

becoming an architect. As she explains, “All I’d ever

mately led them to a new life in South Africa.

really wanted was to study architecture. I kept on

going back to that, but I already had my degree.”

Although she hadn’t yet had any formal training, she

purchased a 1950s two-story Hermosa Beach cottage,

tapped into her strong creative and project manage-

knowing it would require a complete renovation.

ment skills and began building projects.

Though it had good bones, it was far too small for a

The Zdziarskas moved their young family to Sydney, Australia, where Asia fully embarked on her architecture journey and formalized her education. She recalls, “When my kids were little, I was completely consumed

family of five and their three cats.

And the style was dated. Asia couldn’t wait to renovate it. It was her perfect passion project.

Asia also enrolled at UCLA to earn her Master of

with raising them and being a full-time mom.” So she

Architecture degree. “Being an architect was my life’s

attended night classes, earning her degree in archi-

passion, and I eventually asked myself, ‘Am I going

tectural technology, which emphasizes construction

to spend my whole life thinking I wish I’d done it?’ At

versus design.

some point I just said, ‘That’s it, I’m going to do it!’

The family was living happily in Sydney when Alek was offered a job opportunity in Los Angeles that was too good to pass up. Once again the

Architecture was what I had to do—no matter how long it would take me.”

Though still a full-time mom of three young children,

Zdziarskas were off to a new home in a new coun-

Asia found a way to earn that master’s degree. She

try. Asia says, “It’s weird, but our journey has been

now considers it one of her hardest and most reward-

always moving forward.”

ing experiences and achievements. “Living in the U.S.

The family easily adapted to Southern California

38

and fell in love with the South Bay. Asia and Alek

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

was my awakening as an architect,” she explains. “It

“I DEFINITELY LEAN TOWARD DOING VERY CLEAN, MODERN DESIGN. THE LINES HAVE TO ALIGN AND BE FLAT. I LIKE THINGS SIMPLE, AND SOMETIMES SIMPLE THINGS ARE THE HARDEST TO ACHIEVE.”

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

39

40

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

has become my fourth child.”

After living in their Hermosa home for several years,

space that held the original kitchen was transformed into a beautiful master suite. The communal areas

it was time to tackle the renovation. Asia had several

were relocated to the new third level—adding a view

priorities for the redesign. Naturally, she wanted her

and creating an open, airy space where family and

home to reflect her taste.

friends could congregate.

“My aesthetic is very modern,” she points out.

An essential consideration in all of Asia’s projects

“I definitely lean toward doing very clean, modern

is the orientation of the property. Whenever possible,

design. The lines have to align and be flat. I like things

she opts to have primary spaces oriented toward

simple, and sometimes simple things are the hardest

the south to maximize natural light and airflow. This

to achieve.”

design principle was key when Asia was designing her

A top priority of the renovation was adding square footage to the property. Like many homes in the

own home.

On the third level, Asia created a southwest-facing

Beach Cities, the lot size was modest and the foot-

open floor plan for the kitchen, living and dining

print of the home covered nearly the entire lot. Since

spaces. The centerpiece of this exquisite space is

building out was not a viable option, Asia opted to

Asia’s ingenious use of glass barn doors at the south-

build up. After removing the original gabled roof, a

west corner of the dining area. The floor-to-ceiling

third story and a rooftop deck were added—increasing

sliders fully retract out of view, creating a stunning

the home’s usable space by more than 800 additional

alfresco dining space and an ocean view.

square feet without altering its footprint.

Ultimately the renovation required that the home be

The home is what Asia refers to as a square home.

With few exceptions, most of the windows and walls

taken down to the studs, with nearly everything in the

are square. The repetition of the geometric shape

structure needing to be modernized or replaced. The

adds to the sleek, modern sensibility of the home.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

41

She also uses color to make the rooms feel inviting.

The kitchen is brilliant yellow, and the rooftop deck

with a queen bed and minifridge, a large walk-in

and stairs leading to it are vibrant red.

storage closet and a guest bathroom. At the far end

Other noteworthy design elements include a kitchen island on wheels that can be easily moved when Asia and Alek practice morning yoga. Asia added an

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

a staircase leads to the rooftop deck with a firepit, built-in grill and breathtaking views of the bay.

After a lifetime of “country hopping,” as Asia

eye-catching and perfectly curated open bookshelf

lightheartedly calls it, the Zdziarskas plan to stay in

that runs the vertical length of the stairwell joining the

Hermosa. “I like to be where I am,” she says. “I’ve lived

second and third levels.

in so many different places in my life, and I love living

The rear wall of the living room is paneled in neutral

42

wood, discreetly concealing a guest nook complete

here. I want to absorb where I am.” ¢

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

43

A cohesive look: Weave hero colors from one room into accent pieces in the next. We pulled in some of the deep, moody blues and rust colors from the family room to punch up the bright, white living room.

Proportion matters! Just because you love a furniture piece doesn’t mean you’ll love it in the room.

We replaced the too-big farm table in this nook with a streamlined pedestal and instantly transformed the space into a hub for meals and homework.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

southbay home moodboard Tackle interior architecture first.

We wrapped awkward drywall posts and beams with wood to make them look intentional and used vertical tongue and groove in a moody blue-grey to make the space feel like it has been there forever.

Don’t be afraid of color! One of our favorite ways to ensure color doesn’t go wrong is to pick hues with a grey undertone. This will save you from the “Crayolaeffect” of colors overpowering the space and instead create a cozy, moody escape.

CC ZIPPERT Christine Zippert 1700 South Catalina Ave., Suite 203 Redondo Beach 310-483-9845 hello@cczippertdesign.com cczippertdesign.com @cczippertdesign

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

45

E S S EN T I A L S

PATIO PERFECT CREATE A BACKYARD OASIS WITH THESE OUTDOOR STAPLES CURATED BY JENNIE NUNN

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6 4

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1. Milos teak outdoor patio loveseat with white

3. Henri glasses, $16 each. Hudson Grace,

6. Jeva planter, $188 for small; $388 for large.

cushions, $1,999. Crate & Barrel at Del Amo

hudsongracesf.com.

Anthropologie at Manhattan Village and Del Amo

Fashion Plaza in Torrance, crateandbarrel.com.

Fashion Plaza in Torrance, anthropologie.com.

4. Prism chiminea, $1,995. Design Within Reach,

2. Diamond indoor-outdoor pouf, $228. Waterleaf

dwr.com.

Home in Manhattan Beach, waterleafhome.com.

by Polywood, $499. Crate & Barrel at Del Amo 5. Tideline navy rug, $65. Waterleaf Home in Manhattan Beach, waterleafhome.com.

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SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

7. Vista II tangerine outdoor adirondack chair Fashion Plaza in Torrance, crateandbarrel.com.

Price Drop!

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If you have sweeping views, it’s important to keep your interior palette neutral so as not to detract from them. Remember, you’ve got an entire wall of sea and sky (or verdant hills). The eye should never stop but should wander around the space.

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LESS IS MORE A CREATIVE COLLABORATION PROVES MAXIMIZING YOUR LIVING SPACE DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN BUILDING A BIGGER HOME. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE FLETCHER

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A

t 1,400 square feet, the footprint of this Pacific Avenue home in Manhattan Beach covers slightly more than a quarter of the lot it’s built on. In the Beach

Cities, that is pretty unique for a new build. It’s not uncommon for the square footage of a home to be far greater than the lot it’s on—especially the closer you get to the water.

But for the owners of this property, livable space encompasses much more than the size of the interior. They wanted to take full advantage of outdoor living at home in Southern California.

“Large and small—those are our interpretations,” explains Anthony Laney, architect and founder of Laney LA. “Those are characterizations of space that are subjective. Through design, we can create a space to feel generous even though it has a modest footprint.”

He says of the owners: “They clearly knew they didn’t need an oversized home. But they did have one concern: ‘Can we still have a generous and diverse outdoor space?’”

The house has a side entrance—the family wanted to avoid having a front door that faced the street.

So when guests arrive at the home, their introduction to the space begins outside.

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“We created this intimate, romantic, side-yard path,” Anthony says. “You enter through a gate; you walk down this path with these rustic cobblestones.

And the way the landscape is integrated into the fence is really lovely.”

It’s here that guests get their first glimpse of the pool. Once they’re deep into the middle of the property, they find a striking, custom-made, steeland-glass Dutch door. Walking into the home, you’re greeted with a direct view of the center courtyard and sky-high, peaked ceilings. Nothing feels small about this space.

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“AS A CREATIVE, WHEN I HEAR SINGLE-STORY HOME, I THINK, ‘MY GOODNESS, THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT AFFORDS US TO CREATE SPACE AND TO HAVE SOMETHING VERTICALLY INTERESTING.’”

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“As a creative, when I hear single-story home, I think,

In the kids room there’s a stairwell leading to a

‘My goodness, the opportunities that affords us to

shingled loft so tall, even mom and dad can stand in

create space and to have something vertically interest-

it. The kitchen, dining and family areas all share one

ing,’” Anthony shares.

large communal space that opens to a jungle-inspired

The master has access to two outdoor retreats: one

landscape. In an effort to maintain the spirit of some

open and sun-drenched and the other so private you’d

old-world elements, large French doors lead outside

never know it was there. The ensuite bath takes a step

rather than expansive, sliding glass doors that disap-

from the neutral color palette found throughout the

pear into the wall.

rest of the home. It boasts vibrant blue tile and playful pops of color from the de Gournay wallpaper.

“It’s a hand-painted silk wallpaper that comes from Paris,” Anthony says. “It’s become a very interesting way to put art on the wall.” The print is also displayed at the wet bar, located in the main hub of the house.

A lap pool lines one side of the yard. There’s a spot to dine alfresco, a small area of turf that provides a kid-friendly element to the space, and citrus trees for daily fresh-squeezed orange juice.

“On the floor of all the courtyards is black-and-white cobblestone from Portugal, where they’ve traveled.

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There’s a nostalgia to that,” Anthony notes.

To preserve the connection between indoor and

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“They have a passive air ventilation system. It pulls fresh air into the space while it exhausts the hot air

outdoor living areas, the family wanted to avoid a

out,” Anthony explains. But that’s only part of the

large AC unit. Keeping windows and doors open and

equation. “The home stays cool for a few reasons. We

having fresh air circulating throughout their home was

have air exchanges from the fan, we have high ceilings

a priority. Multiple strategies were used to achieve this

and we have a very, very thick roof structure. All those

goal while still maintaining some level of temperature

things add up. Even on a hot summer day, the home

control in the home.

stays cool naturally.”

To heat the house, radiant heat flooring was

So much imagination and ingenuity went

installed. “It’s a far more efficient way to put

into this project, along with trust and a willing-

heat where you need it and feel it rather than

ness to think outside the norm. “They brought

just warming the air in the house,” says Anthony.

an open mind to how the home should be,”

“There are little water pipes that run through the

Anthony says. “There are so many strategies in

floor. The boiler that heats those water pipes is

this house that they were brave enough to do.

the same manifold that heats the pool. It’s all

It’s just so special.” ¢

integrated, which I think is so smart.”

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THE CALIFORNIA MEDIA AND CONTENT COMPANY.

goldenstate.is

@ourgoldenstate

A RT I SA N

THE LITTLE THINGS

A MANHATTAN BEACH–BASED ARTIST CREATES INVENTIVE WOODEN WARES AND GIFTS FROM HER OWN BACKYARD. WRITTEN BY JENNIE NUNN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEBORAH TRACEY, EVAN WONG & STACY WONG

When it comes to her job, Stacy Wong, founder of

the backyard.

eponymous studio in Manhattan Beach, has a few

For each of her pieces—ranging from geomet-

trusted sources. “Sandpaper and work gloves are

ric and swirly-patterned wall vases made of solid

my best friends,” says the artist and maker. “Along

birch to cards depicting wildflowers and succu-

with a drill press, palm, and belt and disc sanders.”

lents printed on acid-free paper sourced from

The native of Warren, Michigan, initially ventured into the home goods world by spending her free time designing and crafting handmade

sustainable forests—she carefully contemplates the color palette and design.

“My love of color is reflected in each of the pat-

gifts as a hobby and selling them on Etsy. “I

terns and designs I create,” says Stacy. “This year

began on a very part-time basis,” says Stacy.

my patterns and colors have been influenced by

“Working creatively gave me greater flexibility to

mid-century design and one of my Mom’s vintage

support my family and their needs. It allowed me

French pottery pieces I was gifted recently.”

to be more present in the moment and attend my

For Stacy, whose items can be found online

boys’ high school and extracurricular activities

and in boutiques nationally and locally including

without feeling guilty.”

Christie and Bone at the Beach, the process and

Following a prolific career in corporate human resources, the self-taught maker officially launched her business in 2014. A typical day begins early

selection of materials is just as important as the end result.

“I choose to work in wood because it’s solid,

with a boot camp class or spin session at the gym,

substantial and sustainable,” she says. “It’s the

followed by painting, sanding, printing and assem-

right medium for creating long-lasting, modern

bling handmade wares from her home studio in

decor and gifts. Wood can be manipulated and

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modified [sanded, edged, refined] with both hand and machine tools. But in the end, it’s still wood. I also like to think of the work I put into each of my products as beautifying and enhancing the initial unfinished wood piece.”

In addition to making art, Stacy began teaching local and virtual workshops in 2015 for organizations including Young at Art and Art at Your Fingertips. She used a variety of mediums including embroidery, macramé, paper marbling, bookbinding and flower making.

“I started teaching making workshops as a way to give back and share with the community,” she says. “I wanted to provide an outlet for meaningful connections within the community as well as with other creatives. It was my hope that by experiencing a workshop, people would walk away with a new appreciation for art, making and creativity.”

Rather than following trends, Stacy focuses on creating designs for new pieces that can’t be found anywhere else. “My product offering is continually changing and evolving, and I make a conscious effort to create goods that are not currently found in the marketplace,” she explains. “Perhaps my design process is a little selfish, because I create what I would like to have in my own home or personally give as a gift. I love making the world a better place by creating beautiful things.” ¢

Warm it up! Create character and dimension in a bright white kitchen by adding stained wood accents. We carried over the wood tones with the island, beams and floor.

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Worth the Wait A LOCAL PALOS VERDES FAMILY TRANSFORMED A LITTLE FIXER ON A SOUGHT-AFTER STREET INTO AN IDYLLIC HOME—ONE STEP AT A TIME. WRITTEN BY AMBER KLINCK | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

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S

hane Andrews grew up in Palos Verdes. It’s

That was eight years ago. “When we bought the

an area she knows well and a community

house, it was a complete fixer—to the extreme,” Shane

she loves. So when she spotted a small “For

notes. And though it was the fourth home Shane and

Sale” sign on Vía Palomino, she knew it was

her husband, Chris Andrews, had remodeled, this was

an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.

“We always liked the street,” Shane says. “At the time, my little one [Elliott] was 15 months old. She

the first time they couldn’t live in the home during the process—at least during the first phase.

“We completely changed everything,” Shane

hopped out of her stroller while we were walking by,

explains. What once was the original home’s living

and there was this itty-bitty ‘For Sale by Owner’ sign

room initially transformed into the master and then

out front.”

eventually an office. The garage is completely new,

They jumped at the opportunity even though

replacing what used to be part of the front yard. And

the timing wasn’t quite right. “We weren’t totally

the couple did all of this themselves, with Shane tak-

ready because my youngest was so tiny and my

ing on the design and Chris managing the build.

other two girls [Brette and Ryann] were still pretty

“We had to really get creative,” Shane says. “This is

small,” she shares. “But we had to take advantage

a 1940s house. We wanted it higher, but we wanted to

of the moment.”

also keep the footprint.”

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69

At one point the couple thought about building into the backyard, but Shane thought the attic might have enough loft for a bedroom upstairs. “We ended up doing the whole space. There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs—it was kind of like a Lego puzzle, trying to figure it out.”

For the yard, the couple opted for a clean slate.

Everything was cleared out and leveled, but it was the removal of a eucalyptus tree that bothered Shane. “I felt really bad about it,” she says.

So she started thinking of ways they could repurpose the wood. “I asked Chris if we could make furniture out of it, and sure enough, he found this guy with a portable sawmill. He and Chris were in the backyard sawing planks of wood. We then had to store it for two years so it could get hard enough to work with.”

Using the wood from that eucalyptus tree, they built two 9-foot dining tables, two 9-foot couches and one coffee table.

Every inch of the home’s interior is utilized, with little nooks sprinkled throughout. Dormer windows on the outside of the home serve as alcoves for studying or reading on the inside. There’s a tiny Lego room on the second floor—a clever use of the extra space right above the main entry. A sweet little hideaway makes use of the space under the

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71

“I love doing fixers. I just like the whole thing—it feels good to get into a big, full project.”

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

73

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stairs. Because the ceilings on the second level follow the roofline, the varied angles and peaks add interest to every corner.

great room, and you’ll find yourself in the master suite.

“This is all new construction,” Shane notes. “We wanted to keep it consistent, but we were tight on

The first room in the home to be finished was the

space. We didn’t want to take up too much square

kitchen. “Chris is really good at sourcing,” Shane notes.

footage in this next phase.” To maximize the space,

“He sourced and ordered directly from the cabinet-

Shane opted to merge the closet and the master

maker, which of course was super labor-intensive in

bath—“which turned out well.”

terms of getting the exact measurements.”

The surfaces of the large island and the backsplash

Seeing the completed home, it’s hard to imagine that it was built in stages. The space feels cohesive,

are porcelain slabs with a marble aesthetic—yet with

and the result is stunning. It’s a timeless, charming,

far greater durability. It’s the kind of space you want

Nantucket-style home eight years in the making.

to congregate in, ideal for cooking with the family or entertaining friends.

Off the kitchen is a large great room with high, peaked ceilings, a fireplace at its center and French doors lining both sides. Make your way through the

But Shane and Chris are already looking for their next project. “I love doing fixers,” Shane says. “I just like the whole thing—it feels good to get into a big, full project.”

We can’t wait to see what she does next. ¢

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

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999 Paseo La Cresta, Palos Verdes Estates | $9,688,000 | www.999paseolacresta.com 7 Bd | 8 Ba | 10,484 sq.ft | 42,718 sq.ft lot | (Almost 1 Acre Lot) | 4 Car Garage

629 Via Horquilla, Palos Verdes Estates | $9,399,000 | www.629viahorquilla.com 7 Bd | 10 Ba | 7,464 sq.ft. | 26,494 sq.ft. lot | 4 Car Garage

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LILY LIANG

HILL.COM

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STRAND HILL | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR

STRANDHILL|CHRISTIE’SINTERNATIONALREALESTATELICENSE#01968431.THEINFORMATIONCONTAINEDINTHISDOCUMENT,INCLUDING,BUTNOTLIMITEDTO,SQUAREFOOTAGEAND/ORACREAGE,HASBEENPROVIDEDBYVARIOUS ACREAGE, HASMAY BEEN PROVIDED

BY VARIOUS WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE LISTING OR OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HASINFORMATION. NOT AND WILL SOURCES WHICH INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLICSOURCES RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HASMULTIPLE NOT AND WILL NOT SERVICE INVESTIGATE VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS

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E S S EN T I A L S

1

DOWN TO EARTH TERRA-COTTA EARTHENWARE AND HOME GOODS IN SIMILAR HUES HELP CREATE A WARM AND WELCOMING SPACE. 2 CURATED BY JENNIE NUNN

3

1. Roja terra-cotta large flush-mount light, $279. Crate & Barrel at Del Amo Fashion Plaza in Torrance, crateandbarrel.com.

2. Tribal mud wallpaper in terra-cotta, $134 per 33’x24” roll.

Milton & King, miltonandking.com.

4

3. Terra-cotta taper candleholder, $24 for small, $36 for medium, $58 for large. Anthropologie at Manhattan Village, anthropologie.com.

4. Morrow Soft Goods Cruz pillow in sienna, $225.

Dacha, Manhattan beach, dachainteriors.com.

5. Louise wine glasses in peach, $48 for set of 4.

Anthropologie at Manhattan Village, anthropologie.com.

6. Roxy terra-cotta vase, $60. Kate Lester Home in Hermosa Beach, katelesterhome.com.

7 5

7. Eliza handwoven cotton and jute rug, 8x10, in terra-cotta natural, $749. Pottery Barn at Manhattan Village, potterybarn.com.

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SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

6

"I would leave a thousand stars if I could. Lisa is beyond awesome. Her team works on a different level of professionalism. I'm so happy I put my trust in her."

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SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

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HIS PLACE IN THE WORLD PAUL R. WILLIAMS CRAFTED A GROUNDBREAKING, 60-YEAR CAREER AS AN ARCHITECT BY OUTWITTING AND OUTWORKING THE RACISM HE FACED AT EVERY TURN. NOW, DUE TO THE ACQUISITION BY THE GETTY RESEARCH INSTITUTE AND USC SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE OF HIS MASSIVE ARCHIVE, HE MAY FINALLY GET THE WIDER RECOGNITION HE DESERVES. WRITTEN BY ANNE M. RUSSELL PHOTOGRAPHED BY JULIUS SHULMAN, ©J. PAUL GETTY TRUST, GETTY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, LOS ANGELES

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E

ven if you don’t know it, you may have

BORN ANGELENO

been in a home or building Paul Revere

Williams’ life had a tragic beginning. His parents

Williams had a hand in creating. If you’re

were from Memphis but moved to Los Angeles

very lucky, you live in one.

shortly before his birth in 1894. Chester and Lila

An enormously productive architect, Williams

Williams died of tuberculosis within two years of

designed homes, schools, civic buildings, depart-

each other, leaving their son an orphan at the age

ment stores and churches all over an ever-ex-

of 4. He was adopted by the Clarkson family and

panding Los Angeles for six decades, from 1914

showed an early fascination with drawing pictures

to 1973. He was also the first Black member of the

of buildings. A family friend suggested he should

American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the first

consider becoming an architect—an idea that was

licensed Black architect west of the Mississippi.

met with resistance by his teachers.

In a poignant essay written for The American

Williams recounts a formative incident in his 1937

Magazine in 1937, when he was 43 and at the

essay: “I determined, when I was still in high school,

height of his career with 50+ employees, Williams

to become an architect. When I announced that

noted, “It is an amusing irony that, with success,

intention to my instructor, he stared at me with …

my color has a certain publicity value. I am a

astonishment. ‘Who ever heard of a Negro being an

freak.” Highly attuned to discrimination, Williams

architect?’ he demanded. ‘You have the ability—but

invented ways to circumvent it at every turn.

use it some other way. Don’t butt your head futilely

An addition to the Beverly Hills Hotel; construction was completed in 1950.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

85

against the stone wall of race prejudice.’”

property—now called The Oakridge Estate—

hillside and burned in a 1982 wildfire. Photos dis-

was bought by the city of Los Angeles. The

played at the site help visitors envision the home’s

ing from Polytechnic High and getting a job with

Department of Recreation and Parks took over its

unique grandeur.

landscape architect Wilbur D. Cook, who designed

care. The nonprofit Friends of Oakridge helps with

the master plan for the city of Beverly Hills. At the

its upkeep and opens it for monthly public tours.

same time, he studied at the Los Angeles School

Another accessible Williams-designed home,

Undaunted, he continued on his path, graduat-

BEYOND THE MANSIONS Williams’ “architect to the stars” sobriquet

of Art and Design and the LA workshop of New

discounts the breadth and depth of his other

York City-based Beaux-Arts Institute of Design.

work. Although Beverly Hills, Hancock Park, La

In 1916 he enrolled at the University of Southern

Cañada Flintridge and Santa Monica host many

California in architectural engineering to learn the practical and business aspects of architecture.

In late 1922, after winning a number of architecture competitions (including one to design a civic center in Pasadena), 28-year-old Williams opened his own practice. He had married Della Mae Givens five years earlier and now had a family to support.

Previously, as an associate at architect John C. Austin’s firm, he had worked on plans for the Shrine Auditorium and First Methodist Church.

Now he would go on to define his own philosophy and aesthetic.

“I wanted to vindicate every ability I had,” he wrote. “I wanted to acquire new abilities. I wanted to prove that I, as an individual, deserved a place in the world.”

DESIGN MINE Various sources credit Williams with having designed 2,000 to 3,000 buildings, but Maristella Casciato, senior curator and head of architectural collections at the Getty Research Institute, says that’s just a guess. The institute, in conjunction with the USC School of Architecture, recently acquired Williams’ archives, which contain 40,000 to 50,000 original drawings that they will eventually digitize.

“It’s still premature to give a grounded estimation of the number of projects he designed, including built and unbuilt buildings,” she says. But Williams “worked nationally and internationally, with an average of approximately 30 to 40 new projects per year, over a half-century career”— meaning that 2,000 buildings are within the realm of possibility.

“I DETERMINED, WHEN I WAS STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL, TO BECOME AN ARCHITECT. WHEN I ANNOUNCED THAT INTENTION TO MY INSTRUCTOR, HE STARED AT ME WITH … ASTONISHMENT. ‘WHO EVER HEARD OF A NEGRO BEING AN ARCHITECT?’ HE DEMANDED. ‘YOU HAVE THE ABILITY—BUT USE IT SOME OTHER WAY. DON’T BUTT YOUR HEAD FUTILELY AGAINST THE STONE WALL OF RACE PREJUDICE.’”

of his residential designs, Williams also worked on public housing (including Nickerson Gardens in Watts and Pueblo del Rio in South L.A.), hotels (Ambassador, Beverly Hills Hotel renovation) and civic buildings.

One of the most important: the 1926 design for the 28th Street YMCA, where he included images of Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington in the roofline frieze. Williams’ granddaughter Karen Elyse Hudson, keeper of Williams’ archive until its transfer to Getty/USC and author of several books about him, says, “From schools and hospitals, churches to department stores, the L.A. County Courthouse to amazing family homes, from banks to the airport, his vision is everywhere.”

Getty curator Casciato describes Williams’ style as “eclectic, anti-dogmatic, accommodating to his very diverse clientele, resourceful and creative, well educated in the Beaux Arts tradition.” Adds Hudson, “He led by example—always striving to please his clients rather than force them to accept his singular vision.”

A peculiarity about the architect’s work style: he would sometimes draw upside down when sitting across from a prospective client. During his lifetime, he gave different explanations as to why, including not wanting to make White people uncomfortable by sitting next to them.

In his 1937 essay, however, he cast it more as salesmanship: “I spent hours learning to draw upside down. Then, with a prospective client seated across the desk from me, I would rapidly begin to sketch the living room of his house.

Invariably, his interest would be excited by the trick. But it was more than a trick, for, as the room

Initially a small-home specialist by necessity,

developed before his eyes, I would ask for sug-

Williams quickly expanded his clientele to include

gestions and for approval of my own ideas. He

Hollywood’s elite. He completed celebrity com-

became a full partner in the birth of that room.”

missions for “Overcoat Jack” Atkin, Desi Arnaz

albeit in ruins, is the 1952 Roberts Ranch House.

and Lucille Ball, Lon Chaney Sr., Bert Lahr, Tyrone

Also known as Tropical Terrace, the Solstice

interiors, making him somewhat of an anomaly

Power, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Frank Sinatra and

Canyon property is in the Santa Monica Mountains

among architects. Having gotten his initial experi-

Barbara Stanwyck.

National Recreation Area in Malibu. If you hike

ence in landscape architecture, he was sensitive to

in, you will be able to see what remains of the

what has become a Southern California hall-

extraordinary structure that was built into a rocky

mark—the interplay of interior space and exterior

Stanwyck’s estate in Northridge was originally named Marwyck Ranch. In 2009 the

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Williams loved designing both exteriors and

features, such as gardens, pools and terraces.

Because he often worked with spare-no-expense clients, he came to value elegance and simplicity over baroque flourishes.

“The most important lesson I learned was restraint,” he wrote in a retrospective essay in 1963.

“A room should have a single focal point, regardless of how much money goes into it.”

MID-CITY DREAM HOME Williams remained acutely aware that he wasn’t welcome to live in many of the neighborhoods where his homes were built. Until struck down in 1948 by the Supreme Court, restrictive deed covenants barring Blacks, Asians and Jews from certain areas were commonplace.

“Today I sketched the preliminary plans for a large country house which will be erected in one of the most beautiful residential districts in the world,” Williams wrote in 1937. “Sometimes I have a dream of living there. I could afford such a home. But that evening … I returned to my own small, inexpensive home in an unrestricted, comparatively undesirable section of Los Angeles. I know that, for the preservation of my own happiness, I must always live in that locality, or another one like it.”

In 1951, however, Williams built his dream home in the Mid-City neighborhood of Lafayette Square.

Williams and his wife loved to entertain, and the austere, mid-century modern, international-style home he designed had a large garden surrounded by a curving wall for that purpose.

Always a perfectionist, Williams traveled to an Indio tree farm to personally select each palm for the space. Adhering to his own motto of simplicity, the home has clean lines and is free of froufrou ornamentation such as decorative columns.

With eyesight failing from complications of diabetes, Williams retired in 1973. The disease ultimately killed him in 1980 at age 85.

“As a man, as an architect, Paul Revere Williams left a legacy of excellence, above all,” his granddaughter Hudson proudly states. “He was the first African American member of the American Institute of Architects in 1923, its first African American fellow in 1957, and its first gold medalist in 2017.”

Despite the joy she takes in chronicling her grandfather’s impressive legacy, she tempers her pride with this: “Today, a century after he joined, the number of African American architects in the AIA remains about 2%. This is inexcusable. It is certainly not for lack of talent.” ¢ A home Williams designed in Palm Springs for actors Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, built in 1954–1955.

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So many clients now both live and work at home. Divide a house’s mass into a series of interconnected pavilions and courtyards with outdoor spaces to provide a seamless, informal flow between indoor and outdoor, work and play.

Multiple outdoor recreation areas create the sense of a beach retreat within the city, allowing interior life to spill over into the outdoor living spaces and still retain a feeling of privacy, while using every square inch of the lot.

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NATURAL CONNECTION SEEKING A JAPANESE ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENT FOR THEIR NEW HOME, A MANHATTAN BEACH RESIDENT AND HIS FAMILY FIND THE IDEAL FIRM TO MAKE THE WISH A REALITY. WRITTEN BY JENNIE NUNN PHOTOGRAPHED BY MANOLO LANGIS

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F

or Michael King and his wife, Lydia, designing a

a passageway and sitting space], and that started the

dream family home in Manhattan Beach on the

process. When I searched for architects and that term,

same lot as their existing residence centered

I found Colega Architects. They took every idea I had

largely around three things: tear-outs from pages

and then built on it.”

of Dwell and other shelter magazines; a desire to cre-

The single word, discovered on Colega’s website in a

ate a seamless indoor-outdoor space; and an internet

description of a previous project, became the vision for

search for a very specific architectural element.

the complete rebuild for the couple, their two children

“We were looking for a little more space. I’ve always

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and labradoodle Levi. “From the first conversation, it

been an admirer of good architecture, and I’ve read

was evident that we had a synergy and a common

lots of magazines over the years. So I wanted to do

design-mindedness,” says Bogdan Tomalevski, partner

something with an architectural flair but also preserve

of Colega Architects who, along with partner Tarek

some of the indoor-outdoor living that we like about

Abdel-Ghaffar and John Mehling of Maycliff Homes,

being in Southern California,” explains Michael, who

designed the 2,800-square-foot home. “We spoke

along with Lydia hails from the Midwest. “I did an

about travel and architecture and their connection.

internet search for engawa [a Japanese term for an

Michael had traveled to Japan and was fascinated with

exterior walkway, usually wood or bamboo, serving as

the engawa concept. Beyond the physical, the engawa

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represents a filter between the interior and the exterior.

It reinforces the connection to nature.”

But the existing 1950s ranch-style residence was dated and no longer met the needs of the family. In addition to their desire for separate spaces for the kids, Michael wanted a study and office space for work and video calls, and Lydia wanted an open kitchen for cooking and entertaining.

“The home was dark and compartmentalized,” explains Bogdan. “There were awkward floor transitions where one finish was built on top of another, and the house did not take advantage of connecting to the yard. The yard looked very promising, and the L-shaped footprint was something that we thought we could work with.”

Stemming from the engawa, the team wanted to create a central hub or great room where private spaces unite and connect the interior and exterior.

“The living room, dining room and kitchen converge as one space at the elbow of the house,” says Bogdan.

“The 14-foot-tall ceiling is finished with slatted wood that bridges through the clerestory windows to the exterior eave. An interior corner glazing system slides away to connect the inside of the home to the modern engawa on the outside. The large glass doors pocket and stack out of sight, allowing a seamless connection to the outside. The wood deck is the outdoor entertaining area, and a thin portion of it extends along the length of the house to connect to the new office, paying homage to the traditional engawa.”

Now the four-bedroom, four-bathroom home—lined with cumaru, a wood similar to Ipe, clear anodized aluminum windows and a smooth troweled stucco—is now completely connected to the backyard. “When the big sliders are open, you walk in and feel like half the house is gone—and you don’t know where it’s gone,” says Michael. “The backyard almost feels like it’s part of the house.”

The outside corner pocket sliding door system became an integral architectural component. “The original design did not have one of the panels opening, and there simply was not enough room to pocket the doors inside the existing wall,” explains Bogdan.

“During framing, with our architect hat on, we came up with a concept to use the idea of a pocket door without building the pocket. With the concept hashed out, we came up with a solution that we presented to Michael and Lydia. They were ecstatic. They had given up on the idea that the entire corner could be opened, and the news came as a mini gem or present in the middle of construction. It was very gratifying to be able to deliver this major moment of the design the way we did.”

For the serene interiors, Bogdan and his team selected all of the finishes to evoke a classic, timeless aesthetic with an emphasis on durability. Mid-century nods are evident throughout with light fixtures by

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“WHEN THE BIG SLIDERS ARE OPEN, YOU WALK IN AND FEEL LIKE HALF THE HOUSE IS GONE—AND YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE IT’S GONE. THE BACKYARD ALMOST FEELS LIKE IT’S PART OF THE HOUSE.”

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George Nelson from DWR, walnut cabinetry in the kitchen and two rippled glass panels next to the front door.

“The vibe is calm and coastal with a texture that relates to nature,” says Bogdan. “Each bathroom has a special tiled wall that has a three-dimensional component [one with waves, another more geometric]. The backsplash in the kitchen is an Ann Sacks tile that is handmade and ribbed. It provides a texture that seems raked, like the sand of a Japanese garden.”

To round out the interiors, they added artwork by artists such as Robert Frame and Andreas Nottebohm that now hangs in the light-filled stairwell. “It’s the space that surprised me the most,” says Michael. “I didn’t expect it to have a strong architectural feel, but it’s very open, light and feels like a museum.”

The family’s most revered feature, however, remains the newly established outdoor connection.

“We’ve got trees [timber bamboo] all around the yard, so it helps reinforce that indoor-outdoor feel, and it just feels like our own private sanctuary,” says Michael. “I love the way the interior glows at night, and my wife loves having the extra space. It’s much more spacious and organized.” ¢

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Sofas facing each other and ottomans on either side of the coffee table allow everyone to have a good view. Throw pillows don’t have to be in matching pairs. Mix it up and have fun with a different pattern on each pillow.

Use a variety of textures and shapes on the entry table.

Contrast is key. The rough rattan on the round mirror is a nice contrast to the smooth ceramic on the lamp base.

The wood console table adds some warmth.

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Glass soap dispensers, fun hand towels and thick folded towels in a basket feel luxurious.

Carrie Quinn

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY & SIRI BERTING

138 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-372-5552 sales@maisonluxehome.com maisonluxehome.com @maisonluxehb

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

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M ED I A

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Mami Wata brings together its cofounder

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to surfing in extreme conditions, made by an

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SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

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Whenever possible, open up walls and take full advantage of views, light and nature.

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T R AV EL

DESIGN DUO

TWO BRAND-NEW OCEANSIDE HOTELS PUT SIGNATURE BEACH STYLES FRONT AND CENTER. WRITTEN BY DARREN ELMS

Just outside Mission Pacific hotel overlooking the Oceanside beach sits the “Top Gun House”—the cottage where Kelly McGillis’ character Charlie resides and romances Tom Cruise’s Maverick.

Recently relocated to this spot, the 1887 structure

by Dr. Henry Graves is getting a $1 million renovation thanks to the developers of the new hotel.

With a fresh paint job and signature Victorian charm, the building already offers a delightful contrast—a snapshot of old and new Oceanside side by side.

Mission Pacific is one of two much-anticipated properties to debut in O’side (as locals like to call their hometown) last year. Sister property The Seabird Resort opened next door, and together the hotels add stylish verve to this beloved surf community. The locals seem to approve, filling the sidewalk patios and rooftop bars just before sunset. With two inviting designs, a common laidback vibe and a few stellar eateries, Mission Pacific and The Seabird easily attract outsiders looking to escape “the bubble” for a weekend.

The properties take two different but equally appealing design approaches. The eclectic yet effortless aesthetic of Mission Pacific comes from award-winning firm EDG. Think earthy textures, artisan touches and an upscale boho feel throughout. From the imagination of designer Bill Bocken in association with Delawie interiors, The Seabird goes for the timeless estate look—embodying the spirit of classic California living. Both properties

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This page: The Seabird Resort and Piper

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

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T R AV EL

This page: Mission Pacific and Valle

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XXXXXXXXXXXX

feature vibrant local art and photography courtesy

Pacific views. If you’re a fan of Cheeky’s in Palm

County Surf Academy and the opportunity to surf

of Oceanside Museum of Art, with a dedicated

Springs, the culinary group F10 brought some of

alongside professional surfer and third-generation

space called OMA West housed in The Seabird.

that same casual dining magic to High/Low—a

Oceanside resident Duran Barr.

Detailed style choices extend from the lobbies

breezy, oceanfront café.

A vintage Rambler camper is set up on The

to the individual rooms and public spaces. At The

But the true star of the hotel’s culinary experi-

Seabird, the Shelter Club pool bar and restaurant

ence awaits at Valle. Chef Roberto Alcocer, who

everything they need for a perfect beach day.

color blocks red, yellow and blue in different

hails from Mexico’s Guadalupe Valley, worked

From rental games like volleyball and cornhole to

shelved alcoves and throws in framed vintage

in high-profile kitchens across the globe—from

health-conscious food and drink, apparel, and sup-

bathing suits for an extra bit of whimsy. Upstairs,

Michelin-starred La Broche in Madrid to Mexico

plies, the Rambler allows guests to simply show up

a wood-paneled library with a full-sized canoe

City’s Pujol—before returning home to open his

and soak up the sun. Dating back to 1941, the vin-

lighting fixture gives families a place to unwind

first restaurant, Malva Cocina de Baja California.

tage George T. Hall Company Rambler is the only

and play games.

Featuring a spacious outdoor dining veranda over-

remaining model of its kind—meticulously restored

The crisp and refreshing Sunny’s Spa delights

looking the ocean and private dining room, Valle

to its original glory by Jeremy Phillips, owner and

with natural light, an open floor plan and blue-and-

underscores California culinary inspiration rooted

operator of Hutchbilt design.

white striped Ralph Lauren uniforms. Breakfast

in the traditions of the Guadalupe Valley—perfectly

hub-turned-pasta bar by night Piper serves up

rendered and delivered by one of Baja’s most

Museum and its permanent and revolving exhi-

modern yet welcoming atmosphere thanks to

celebrated chefs.

bition chronicling the history of surfboards and

award-winning Los Angeles-based design studio Bells + Whistles.

Targeted to a hip, younger crowd, the rooftop

O’side is a surf community at its core, and both Mission Pacific and The Seabird offer a

Strand at Oceanside to ensure guests have

Oceanside is also home to the California Surf

wave riding. True fans of surf won’t want to miss this rare archive and collection. ¢

complimentary surf concierge and valet. The

bar at Mission Pacific offers a day-to-night expe-

concierge grants guests access to a variety of

rience of artisan cocktails, live DJ sets and killer

lessons, including private surf sessions with North

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

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NOW AVAILABLE Build your custom dream home on one of four available parcels of land in the only coastal golf course community in Los Angeles.

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W

hen architect Michael Lee first started working with clients on a new Hermosa Beach project, an interesting lot across the street

became available. “They asked me if they should buy it, and I said, ‘Yes, absolutely,’” Michael notes.

“It’s a very unusual property on Circle Drive—I think one of the best streets in the South Bay—and it’s an oversized lot. What could be better?”

In addition to being oversized, the lot had just the right amount of slope and a stunning view. “It was the perfect opportunity to do something fun,” Michael says. The slope permitted a build with multiple levels—none of which are fully subterranean.

“I love that each one has its own personality,” says Michael, founder of Michael Lee Architects. “The extra-wide lot allowed for a courtyard in the center of everything, which makes it a perfect spot for family to gather. The downstairs really isn’t designed to be a living room. It’s designed to be a family room with grandparents hanging out inside and grandchildren splashing around in the hot tub.”

At the start of the project, the owners weren’t

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quite grandparents. But they designed the home in anticipation of little ones. “Family is so important to them,” notes Lynn Pépe, design principal of Pépe Studio. “They have three boys who are all grown, but it was all about having a place for them to come home to.”

Since the project’s completion, the owners have welcomed their first grandchild into the family. They love to entertain, so they noted that nothing should be too delicate or too precious.

“It’s important to have durable materials and fabrics that are more forgiving,” Lynn says.

Never once, however, was style sacrificed for durability. There’s not a corner of the house that doesn’t feel exceptional, with unique and interesting reveals found throughout the space. One that stands out immediately is the bridge on the courtyard level of the home.

“It’s kind of a trademark of ours,” Michael notes. “We do bridges in a lot of our projects; it’s something that’s followed me since design school. I love fun things, and bridges are fun.”

Lynn designed a railing along the wall that adds a subtle direction to the feature—you’re almost inclined to hold onto the rail as you walk across. “It’s one of my absolute favorites,” she says. “I love it.”

On the lower level is a wine cellar that holds up to 2,500 bottles. To say it’s impressive would be an understatement. “At night, if you’re downstairs by the wine cellar and you look up at the bridge, the way the light comes in and creates these shadows—it’s so beautiful,” Lynn says.

The kitchen, dining and family room are on the top floor of the home, along with a bar and a spacious deck with sprawling ocean views. “The choice of the dark, smoked mirror [behind the bar] was on purpose,” Lynn notes. “If we used a regular mirror, it would have been too bright with the reflection of the sun. That dark, smoked glass gives it some reflection and depth without it being too bright.”

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With so many areas to congregate, this floor serves as the hub of the home. “It’s all about watching sports and cooking and the family hanging out. It’s a spectacular place to entertain,” says Michael.

Another hidden gem of the home is its rooftop deck. “It’s right off the barbecue,” Michael points out.

“You can take something off the grill and go right up to the roof, sit around the fire pit and have your meal.”

Stone sourced from Italy is thoughtfully placed throughout the home’s interior and exterior. “It has just enough grey, cream and white without being too yellow or too warm,” Lynn says. “It’s an absolutely beautiful material. To have it in these moments throughout the house, the stone becomes art itself. We’re so happy with the way that it turned out.”

One of the guest bathrooms features tiles made from television glass. “It’s another product from Italy,” Lynn says. “The manufacturer and the designer use the glass from recycled televisions. I love that we were

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“ I T ’ S A V ERY UN U S UA L PR O PERT Y O N C I RC L E D R I V E—I T H I N K ONE OF T H E B ES T S T R E ET S I N T H E S O U T H BAY—A N D I T’S A N OV ER SI Z ED LOT . WH AT CO U L D B E B ET T ER? ”

able to repurpose those things. I think it’s really important that we start thinking about how we can use more products like that in construction. It’s so beautiful, it’s so cool and I love the finish.”

Lynn also helped the owners curate the collection of art displayed in the house. “It was really important to bring in color,” she says. “A lot of the artwork helps break up the home’s neutral palettes.”

This isn’t the first time Michael and Lynn have collaborated on a project. “He’s such a talented designer. He loves to be involved in every detail,” Lynn says.

“She’s not just an interior designer. She thinks about the floor plans and the flow—she has an architect’s eye toward design,” Michael adds. “We collaborated on nearly everything in that house.” ¢

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PROPERTY GROUP

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DAN O'CONNOR 310-261-7756

Dan@OConnorProperty.com OConnorproperty.com | DRE #01384632

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Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

2022 DESIGN SHOWCASES 126 C&C PARTNERS

DESIGN BUILD FIRM PATRICK CUNNINGHAM & MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM

128 RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION

RJ SMITH

130 EDEN LA INTERIORS

JAMIE RODDY

132 LANEY LA 134 MBC INTERIOR DESIGN

MARY BETH CHRISTOPHER

136 MICHAEL LEE

ARCHITECTS, INC. MICHAEL LEE

138 RAS-A STUDIO 140 JOSEPH SPIERER

ARCHITECTS JOE SPIERER

142 ODOYA DESIGN 144 WATERLEAF INTERIORS

JILL JOHNSON & SUZANNE ASCHER

EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING, TAMEKA JACOBS & SHANE O’DONNELL SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

146 MAISON LUXE

CARRIE QUINN

148 KONNI TANAKA

INTERIOR DESIGN KONNI TANAKA

150 CAROLINE BURKE DESIGNS

AND ASSOCIATES CAROLINE BURKE

152 AMORPHOUS STUDIO LLC

RONNIE GOR

C&C PARTNERS DESIGN BUILD FIRM Patrick Cunningham, AIA Michael Cunningham, GC 508 N. PCH, Redondo Beach 310-322-0803 | info@candcpartners.com candcpartners.com @candcpartners

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

cozy den is centrally located, with direct access

This five-bedroom, nine-bath, modern master-

to the front door, sliders that open to the front

piece was designed by C&C Partners Design

deck on one side and a courtyard on the other.

Build for homeowner and developer Ariel

The kitchen is as striking as it is functional.

Isaacson. Founded 30+ years ago by brothers

The dominant material is a graystone marble

Patrick Cunningham and Michael Cunningham,

imported from Brazil. It is utilized on the coun-

the firm has cultivated relationships throughout

tertops, island and back wall, as well as on the

the luxury custom home industry, including col-

front exterior of the home and the backyard

laborations with other builders and architects

built-in barbeque. The contrasting Midnight

that produce stunning results for clients.

Garden cabinetry and globe pendant light-

The goal was to create a truly contemporary

ing brighten the room, aided by sliders and a

home with a warm, welcoming ambience,

retractable glass wall that let the sun shine in

avoiding the “art museum” aura some modern

while leading directly to the backyard and pool.

homes emit. Yeara Design was brought in to

A bonus is the basement flex room, with a

help coordinate the interiors, crafting the overall

250-bottle wine rack and walk-in cooler, pool

feel of the house through color and texture. By

table, separate dining and entertainment spaces,

utilizing natural and organic materials and tones

and a graystone bar with illuminated counter-

but still keeping the architectural lines clean and

to-ceiling cabinets. The exposed beam ceiling

precise, this home more than attains the elegant

runs the length of the room, adding warmth and

yet homey atmosphere it was striving for.

tying the various zones together. This home is

The 8,166-square-foot dwelling features a spacious master bedroom with his-and-hers

a spectacular example of modern living that is cheerful, inviting and promises lots of fun.

walk-in closet space. Her bath (pictured) utilizes

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES OF

a beautiful lilac marble with purple hues for the

INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK?

shower and countertops, with a freestanding

When a client expresses the architectural style

soaker tub and gold accented pendant lights.

they desire for their custom home, we do our

The oversized floor tiles and sleek cabinetry

own research online or through books. How-

keep the look contemporary.

ever, as part of our design process we also invite

All the bedrooms have en suite bathrooms

126

clients to share images they have saved for

and large windows letting in tons of natural

inspiration. From those images, we become

light, with reactive engineered wood floors

enlightened on the true direction of how their

flowing throughout. Three bedrooms include

home needs to look and feel, and it could possi-

sliders opening to an adjoining deck. A colorful,

bly be a direction we did not think of ourselves.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY JACK BREMEN, PRO PROPERTY SHOTS

bathrooms and more than 175 feet of combined

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

RJ SMITH CONSTRUCTION RJ Smith

930 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach 310-648-8353 | office@rjsmithconstruction.com RJSmithConstruction.com Instagram: @rjsmithconstruction Facebook: @rjscos | YouTube: @RJ Smith Construction

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

times. My favorite process is picking our team

Our 6th Street home is a bit of a “California-

members who get to work with our clients: the

casual-meets-England” cottage—a mix that

designer, architect and consultants. This pro-

may have people raise their eyebrows at first.

cess shapes the style of the home along with

But once you step inside the home, you’ll likely

any fun details we want to include.

think, “Oh, I get it!” We worked closely with interior designer Ashley Ausland from the

WHAT IS THE BEST THING YOU LEARNED

moment the demo was ready to begin. The

PROFESSIONALLY IN THE LAST TWO YEARS?

open-floor kitchen was built to tie in not only

Making sure maintenance and design can go

the dining area and outdoor space but also the

hand-in-hand. So many people want the latest

family room. The color palette brings the space

and greatest items, but we need to know how

together, allowing this family to feel cozy and

long they will last and what type of mainte-

comfortable all year long. In the master bath-

nance will keep them looking new. My staff

room, we used a two-tone stucco plus custom-

and I take great strides to be aware of all the

cut marble edges to keep our English theme

newest items—from appliances to tile and

intact. We loved the custom work throughout

stone—so we can inform our clients about the

every inch of this home; it does not get more

best decisions for them and their families.

unique than this. Thanks to our California weather, the family can enjoy the exterior living

WHERE DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF

and dining room on a daily basis.

BUILDING IN THE SOUTH BAY GOING? Further south. People are always going to

WHAT SETS YOUR FIRM APART FROM

want to live in Manhattan and Hermosa, but

OTHER BUILDERS?

lately we have had a lot of pull toward Re-

Our process. We are with our clients from con-

dondo Beach and Palos Verdes. I think this is

cept to land acquisition, design and comple-

mostly due to the COVID-19 effect of people

tion, as well as ongoing maintenance from

working from home more and wanting more

years to come. No one in our area is doing

space. By going further south, they get that.

anything like this.

128

Family time! Sports and bike-riding with my

Easy: our clients. Every client has a different

two boys. We had a pickleball court installed

vision of their dream home. We love bringing

last year, and that’s become a big part of my

that to life for them. We pride ourselves on

after-work/weekend regime. My wife and I

having a close relationship with our clients, and

love hosting our neighbors from time to time

that means having open communication at all

as well.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY OLIVIA PIERCE

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF. WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED?

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

EDEN LA INTERIORS Jamie Roddy 1209 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach 310-376-0033 edenLA@edenLA.com edenLA.com Social media: @edenLAInteriors

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

HOW IS YOUR JOB DIFFERENT TODAY

This was a truly fun project due to all the trust

THAN IT WAS TWO YEARS AGO?

the clients gave us to make their second home

Location times three! We just moved our

a dream come true. The clients are bicoastal

design studio to the heart of Downtown

and love Manhattan Beach as much as we

Manhattan Beach—a larger space absolutely

all do! Because of the faith they had in our

flooded with natural lighting. If you catch us

design abilities and the desire to create their

without a smile on our faces, it’s because our

ultimate beach home, the project was one of

cheeks hurt!

the smoothest and most rewarding that we’ve had. These photos only show the design that

WHAT COLOR ARE YOU LOVING

we’re proud of—not the immense satisfaction

TO WORK WITH IN 2022?

of the clients. As that is always our ultimate

All. The. Green! Green is back from the ’90s,

goal, we’re proudest of that!

and it’s as hunter and forest as ever. It’s a color that has always particularly stirred my soul, so

HOW DO YOUR CLIENTS EXPRESS THEIR

I am here for it!

In infinite ways, and it delights me to no end!

ARE CLIENTS ASKING FOR DUAL-

I adore and specialize in bringing clients’

PURPOSE ROOMS?

personalities to light in the design of their

Ha! Constantly! Our beautiful South Bay

homes. Part of our process is a deep dive into

location all but ensures we all have a full

the clients’ lifestyles, hobbies, experiences,

house at all times. Projector screens come out

travel and even guilty pleasures. The goal is

of walls for instant movie rooms. Desks fold

always to create balance, beauty and joy while

into closets for additional office space. Beds

holding true to each clients’ individuality and

fold into ottomans? Yeah—that too. We are

spark! People are honestly so, so cool—and I

well-versed at squeezing out every square

love bringing out our clients’ uniqueness when

foot from each space we design. The more

designing their homes (and businesses).

function, the merrier!

130

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY KIM PRITCHARD

INDIVIDUALITY IN THEIR HOMES?

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

LANEY LA 725 Cypress Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-870-7175 yes@laney.la | laney.la @laneylainc

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

between enduring architecture and its evolving

Rooted within the mountain landscape, this

environment. Every project begins with discov-

3,500-square-foot residence incrementally

ery as we dive into the hopes and dreams of our

evolves from rugged to refined. Stacked stone

clients and bring to the surface the opportuni-

taken from the site composes the terraced,

ties and constraints before us. And it ends with

plinth base of the home. With each level, there

a timeless design—one that involves a journey

is a progressive increase in the degree of

of generous collaboration, a rigorous design

refinement, light and craftsmanship—the pin-

process and care for every crafted detail.

nacle coinciding with breathtaking views of the Carson Range.

In a mountain home, where the air is clear and

HOW DOES YOUR WORK HELP CLIENTS STRENGTHEN THEIR CONNECTION

nature is a step away, these elemental factors

TO NATURE?

became the inspiration for a home that is both

Whether a project’s context is urban or rural,

grounded and freely open to its surrounding

there is both great opportunity and responsibil-

context. At the base of the sloped site, a cavern-

ity for elevating the way our clients experience

ous garage is nestled deep within the hillside.

nature. Most of us have had the privilege of

From it, a wide path of paved stone leads to the

encountering nature in ways that evoke awe,

entry gallery and lounge. Ascent to the third

peace and stillness or leave an impact of shock,

level unfolds a quiet series of private and public

wonder and adrenaline. These inimitable quali-

spaces separated by board-formed concrete

ties are the ones we seek to translate in ways

walls and flexible enough to be completely

that are meaningful to the unique needs of our

open to the mountain air. Evoking the memory

clients and the identity of the architectural form.

of the client’s 200-year-old mountain cabin, the blackened timber roof unifies the entire

WHAT DESIGN TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING?

composition of concrete volumes and glass as

We’ve recently observed design and building

it frames the views beyond. Ultimately, this is a

trends taking us outside the South Bay. In fact,

residence designed to be worthy of the moun-

our clients have begun taking us on journeys

tain on which it rests.

to the places where they escape. Prompted in many ways by the pandemic, it is no secret that

132

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

real estate markets such as Idaho and Montana

We are an award-winning architecture practice

have gone through exponential growth. As a

dedicated to creating meaningful work. Based

result, we have been privileged to have the op-

in Hermosa Beach, our passion is to create work

portunity to travel away from the beach and to

that speaks powerfully—sparking a dialogue

more rural and natural landscapes.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

MBC INTERIOR DESIGN Mary Beth Christopher 401 2nd St., Manhattan Beach 404-245-3307 | info@mbcinteriordesign.com mbcinteriordesign.com Instagram: @mbc.interiordesign

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

want their home to live. Our goal is to make

Our client had lived in this quintessential

each space not only beautiful but beautifully

Manhattan Beach bungalow—just steps away

unique to each client. We put our stamp on

from The Strand—for more than 20 years.

every project but believe a home is most

The existing home had been designed in the

compelling when it’s a reflection of the people

popular Mediterranean style with antique

who live there.

furniture and window treatments that made it feel a little dark for beach living. The client was

ARE OPEN FLOOR PLANS STILL

ready for a refresh, but she still wanted it to

IN DEMAND?

feel classic; some of the pieces she owned had

I think—especially here at the beach—open

been passed down, and she needed them to

floor plans are still in demand because they

be incorporated into the new design.

allow in lots of light and make a home feel

The result is a modern take on traditional

airier. We are seeing people looking to carve

living. Inspired by a painting from the

out special places within that open floor plan,

client’s art collection, the new color palette

providing the best of both worlds: less of an

is lighter and brighter. We replaced the

enclosed room and more of a nook that’s off

window treatments with woven shades and

to the side of the main living space. Spaces

linen drapery that allow the light in but still

such as a home office, den or TV room are

provide plenty of privacy. We lightened up the

great for this because they can still feel cozy

upholstery and kept the lines of the furniture

and private but not be completely separated

clean and tailored to make pieces like the

from the rest of the home.

antique dining table feel a little less formal. A beautiful, shimmery grass cloth wallpaper in

VINTAGE OR NEW?

the powder room complements the custom

The answer is both—mixing styles and

vanity we had painted in a smoky green.

different elements is what makes a space

134

feel staged and sterile. If there is too much

We are a residential interior design studio that

old, it can feel dated. Finding the right

specializes in creating modern-classic interiors

balance and blending styles makes a space

for everyday living. We focus on all levels of

feel custom since it’s those homier, more

design—from a one-room refresh to full-scale

comfortable elements that can make a new

remodels and custom builds. What is most

home feel lived in. The best thing about

essential to our design process is getting to

vintage pieces is how easy they are to mix in

know our clients—their style and how they

no matter your design style.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

interesting. When everything is new, it can TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

MICHAEL LEE ARCHITECTS, INC. Michael Lee, AIA 2200 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach 310-545-5771 info@mleearchitects.com mleearchitects.com Social media: @mleearchitects

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

DESCRIBE THE VERNACULAR OF

This beautiful property is actually two

YOUR FIRM.

connected townhomes on one walk-

We are primarily a custom residential

street lot in Manhattan Beach. Our clients

design firm. We specialize in private homes

developed one of the units to be their

throughout the L.A. Basin and Southern

family’s forever home, while the other was

California, with some of our newer projects

sold upon completion. Our primary mission

being in Newport Beach and Santa Barbara

was to create a seamless design for the

County. Our belief in the basics of good design

exterior as well as generous open-plan

enables us to design successfully in a range of

spaces and expansive ocean views in both

styles. We also do multifamily residential, small

units. We always aim to take advantage of

commercial and restaurant work, along with

the amazing weather here in the South Bay,

interior design and construction management.

and our client’s third floor is the perfect

Design-build has been a very successful

place to enjoy that quintessential indoor-

formula for us on numerous projects.

outdoor experience. There are two outdoor entertaining spaces: the extravagant, west-

WHAT IS IT ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY

facing deck with its beautiful panoramic

THAT CAPTIVATES YOU?

views and a more cozy and protected space

Working in architecture is challenging, given

right off the kitchen on the east side of the

the huge range of skills and responsibilities that

home. The homeowners put together a

an architect must take on. However, this is what

wonderful team, with Krikorian Construction

makes being an architect so rewarding. An

executing a great build and Deborah Gear

architect must solve problems in an aesthetic

providing a beautiful interior vision.

way, engineer projects cost-effectively,

136

approval processes, and then coordinate the

SERVICE YOU OFFER CLIENTS?

construction and finishes of those projects.

Our belief in good design and understanding

Having an understanding of all aspects of

of how to create lasting, quality

the design process and a deep appreciation

architecture—along with 30+ years of

for good architecture and all of its various

architectural practice in the South Bay.

components gives us great satisfaction.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MANOLO LANGIS

guide them through the byzantine municipal WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

RAS-A STUDIO 310-937-1760 | 2507 W. 190th St., Redondo Beach ras-a.studio | @ras_a.studio

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

in-floor hydronic radiant heating is installed

This project is located two blocks from

throughout. A solar water collector on the

the Pacific Ocean in Hermosa Beach. The

south roof provides the domestic hot water

challenge was the home’s tight 30’ x 70’ lot

and supplements the boiler for the in-floor

flanked on one end by a walk street and on

radiant system.

the other with a narrow alley. Our clients wanted an open concept on the ground

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

floor that leads to natural grade and outdoor

We are a boutique design-build studio that

areas, but zoning mandates a large two-

believes in good design and getting our

car garage that would otherwise force the

hands dirty. With a multidisciplinary team

living spaces of the small footprint to be

of architects, designers and contractors, we

split between multiple levels. The solution

provide complete services—taking a project

was a mechanical parking lift that fits two

from conception through construction.

cars stacked in the footprint of one.

A front deck doubles as an outdoor rec

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START?

room. White masonry blocks form an entry

At a small architecture firm in Beverly Hills

wall that screens interior living areas from

almost 20 years ago. Wanting to be closer to

the front porch. A 27-foot-long pocket sliding

the beach, I then went on to work at Dean Nota

door opens the living, dining and kitchen

Architect in Hermosa for about seven years

to a patio running the length of the lot and

before eventually branching out on my own.

allows the interior to borrow 6½ feet from the required side yard, making the modest-sized

HOW MUCH OF YOUR JOB IS ACTUALLY

footprint live larger than its square footage.

SOLVING CLIENTS’ PROBLEMS?

The bedrooms and study are located on the

We look at every project as a problem to solve

second floor, where a balcony offers access

and come up with a specific solution to that

to a private roof terrace.

problem. The end product is a holistic result

138

deriving from the site (physical constraints,

operable doors and windows give the home

existing structures, zoning, sunlight, etc.), the

passive cooling that eliminates the need

client’s program, budget and the context or

for an air conditioning system. For warmth,

locale of the project.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE FLETCHER

The ocean breeze and abundance of

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

JOSEPH SPIERER ARCHITECTS Joe Spierer 707 Torrance Blvd., Suite 100, Redondo Beach 310-876-8761 info@calarchitect.com calarchitect.com Instagram: @joseph.spierer.architects Facebook: @JosephSpiererArchitects

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

that flowed from the kitchen to living to dining

This modern Spanish home in Manhattan Beach

rooms or communal gathering spaces, the

is a one-of-a-kind design. Classic white stucco

ideal home would have an open floor plan to

and iron details adorn the outside, while the

encourage closeness and connection. Homes

arched glass front door invites visitors to step

reduced in size as spaces blended and opened

inside. A winding steel-railed staircase with ac-

into one another.

cents of traditional Spanish tile ascends to the

After the pandemic, everything changed.

upper floor. Soft light reveals every fine detail

As our clients were required to remain home,

in the custom cabinetry, illuminating the way

their desire to escape to distinct spaces in their

along the naturally colored hardwood floors.

homes increased. We began designing larger

Modern wood beams guide guests through

homes because there was a higher demand for

this serene home. Charming craftsmanship and

separate spaces such as offices, gyms, bed-

modern detailing are brought together in every

rooms and private outdoor areas. Openness

element of this two-story house, creating a

and community remained important, but our

sense of warmth and timelessness.

clients found they required more living space.

HOW DO YOU HELP EXPRESS CLIENTS’

HOW DO YOU ASSIST YOUR CLIENTS IN

INDIVIDUALITY IN THEIR HOMES?

STRENGTHENING THEIR CONNECTION

Getting to know clients is the first step toward

TO NATURE?

understanding their distinct vision, so we begin

Designing in conjunction with nature is at the

our design process by conducting an extensive

core of our philosophy. We celebrate every

client interview. Asking in-depth questions and

aspect of a site to create a truly meaningful

creating a visual story of their desires and needs

design. In the past, homes in the South Bay were

allow us to draw out each client’s individual

developed in a way that disassociated the home

style. Only after a thorough analysis do we col-

from its location. Fireplaces were placed in front

lect the information necessary to put pencil to

of magnificent ocean views, and obtrusive walls

paper. Through our client-centric approach, we

divided the spaces instead of forming connec-

create not only a beautiful, tailored design but

tions between them. We design in collabora-

also one that is both practical and personal.

tion with nature, so we include elements like multi-slide doors with minimal frames, materials

HOW IS THE DESIGN INDUSTRY DIFFERENT

in locations that blend the interior and exterior,

TODAY THAN IT WAS TWO YEARS AGO?

skylights melding the interior with the sky, and

Before the pandemic, our clients wanted large,

openings that enable cross-breezes and fresh air

versatile spaces. Whether it was great rooms

flowing through the space.

140

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE KELLEY & LAUREN PRESSEY

Houzz: jsarchitects/joseph-spierer-architects

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

ODOYA DESIGN 1151 8th St., Hermosa Beach 424-254-6710 | oi@odoyadesign.com odoyadesign.com @odoya_design

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

whenever possible. Odoya believes that even

This contemporary home was designed with the

the humblest dwellings host beauty within.

goal of merging interiors and the outdoors to be experienced as one. The client’s requirements

WHAT DO YOUR CLIENTS APPRECIATE MOST?

were to create functional entertainment spaces

Our clients appreciate our enthusiasm for

while keeping open grass space for play. First

design, our work ethic, and our overall consider-

envisioning the space and the natural flow of

ation and kindness. We believe in thorough and

human behavior, we then created specific func-

consistent communication with clients so their

tional areas that all come together cohesively

vision is reflected in our final output. Design is

for the client to enjoy at various moments. The

our passion, and it’s evident in our relationships

spaces include a spa, lounge areas, outdoor

with clients, contractors, vendors, as well as in

kitchen, dining and mini-golf. The house facade

the project’s end result.

was updated by replacing old shingles with whitewashed brick and adding sliding doors.

The color palette is neutral with accents of

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START? Ana Dias, architect & founder: Prior to founding

black, resulting in a contemporary, casual and

Odoya, I graduated from architecture school

polished home. This project reflects a success-

at the Universidade Santa Úrsula in Rio de

ful collaboration between the designer, client

Janeiro. Following graduate school, I worked

and builder. We worked well together, welcom-

for a Rio-based interior design company as well

ing different ideas and cultivating respect.

as architecture firms in Rio and Paris. Stateside

Odoya Design managed the project, while Icaza

I partnered with a Hermosa Beach company,

Construction handled the building and Taylor

JDS Outdoor Designs, where I worked for seven

Jones (LA plant girl) provided the plants.

years before branching out on my own and launching Odoya.

142

Odoya is a residential interior and outdoor de-

HOW DOES YOUR EXPERIENCE IN INTERIOR

sign and contracting firm. We focus on all levels

AND OUTDOOR DESIGN BENEFIT CLIENTS?

of design-build from a single room to complete

Ana: With a background in architecture and

new construction. Our approach is rooted in

seven years of outdoor design experience, it’s

minimalist, modern and natural aesthetics. We

only natural that I see interiors and exteriors as

believe in making design affordable and attain-

spaces that should be connected and therefore

able for all. Central to our ethos, Odoya champi-

designed by the same team. Presently, there is

ons the fight against the culture of disposability

a shift in lifestyle where clients seek to experi-

and strives to implement sustainable design

ence serenity and integration with indoor and

using reclaimed and planet-friendly materials

outdoor spaces and their natural elements.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY PETER MCMENAMIN

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

WATERLEAF INTERIORS

Jill Johnson & Suzanne Ascher 1210 Morningside Dr., Manhattan Beach 310-545-7539 | jill@waterleafinteriors.com waterleafinteriors.com @waterleafinteriors @waterleafhome

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

in the tiny back stockroom of our flagship

Our featured home is a warm, contemporary,

Metlox location. We opened with a combined

ground-up project. Our clients, Josh and Ellie

space for interior design and retail, not

Greenberg, wanted to take visual risks with

knowing exactly what direction our business

color, pattern and textures to make their home

would take. We were excited about the

exciting and unique. Our process started with

possibilities. Although we opened at the start

going through the plans and reviewing every

of the recession, our interior design business

detail to make it cohesive with their day-to-day

grew quickly. Within five years, we took over

lifestyle. Ellie, creator of whatstheflip.com,

the adjacent Color Me Mine space to create

and Josh love to entertain, and the kitchen

a design studio for our growing design staff.

is the heart of their home. To create the

Shortly after, we opened a larger connecting

contemporary European feel they wanted,

retail space for Waterleaf Home.

we selected a high-gloss grey paint, a narrow

We’ve remodeled the spaces several times

shaker rail on the cabinetry and beautiful

over the years to accommodate our growing

pendants over the island. The kitchen island is

staff, house our extensive samples library

painted a custom peacock blue, which is a key

and expand our retail footprint. Vendors of

design element throughout the main floor. We

the best fabrics, wallpaper, rugs, hardware,

worked with our clients to select several pieces

flooring, furniture, lighting and more visit

by pop-surrealist painter Daniel Maltzman that

Waterleaf daily to show us their lines, which

play into their love of music and fashion.

saves us so much time in the design process.

We also expanded online with the launch

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES OF

of WaterleafHome.com, which helped us

INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK?

tremendously during the pandemic.

Today the Waterleaf team, composed of

We pay close attention to how they envision

22 talented individuals including designers,

their home, and we make it the best version

retail associates and back-office admin staff,

possible. We are constantly traveling to

provides our clients and customers with the

furniture shows, vacationing to interesting

utmost expertise and support. We feel truly

places, and learning about new products and

blessed that we love what we do, and we

trends that give us inspiration in our work.

feel so fortunate to have such an amazing Waterleaf family of employees, clients and

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

customers. The saying “pick a job you love,

We opened Waterleaf almost 16 years ago

and you won’t work a day in your life” hangs in

in the summer of 2006 with four employees

our studio—and that’s our story.

144

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY TARYN KENT

Our clients are our #1 source of inspiration.

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

MAISON LUXE Carrie Quinn 138 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310-372-5552 sales@maisonluxehome.com maisonluxehome.com Instagram: @maisonluxehb

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

for close to 20 years. We work with a variety of

This project was done for a young couple

clients and projects and offer complete design

with small children in the South Bay. Since

services. We are happy to help with styling,

the couple are currently working from home,

staging, remodels and new construction. Stop

they wanted their space transformed to feel

by our retail store to hear about our design

more inviting and comfortable for their family.

services, purchase a gift or just say hello!

Their Playa Vista condo is located directly on the beach, giving us a lot of inspiration for the

WHAT ICONIC CALIFORNIA-STYLE ITEM

project. We incorporated the family-friendly

SHOULD BE IN EVERY HOUSE?

aspect that they needed with a coastal, con-

We can’t pick just one! Great surf books, natu-

temporary feel. We worked with the family to

ral textures and unique coral pieces are great

select furniture, art and accessories in order to

items to portray the iconic California style

make the space feel like “them.”

that we know and love. We are lucky enough

A big inspiration in the bedroom was the

to have unlimited access to these items, with

beautiful natural light and ocean view. With

our retail store located right in the heart of

that being said, we wanted the bedroom to

Hermosa Beach. Our store carries all of the

feel serene and comfortable for the couple.

accessories, bedding and greenery featured in

The subtle coastal touches, linen textures and

this project. You can purchase all items seen

warm colors allowed us to achieve this. The

here in our store or on our website.

tribal wallpaper in the bedroom also brought great texture and a uniqueness to the space.

We were able to sprinkle coastal touches

HOW ARE CLIENTS EXPRESSING THEIR INDIVIDUALITY IN THEIR HOMES?

throughout the home with soft blues and

We always say that Maison Luxe is not about our

natural elements. We achieved this in the

own specific design style but rather about how

bookshelves, coastal artwork and textiles. Due

we can best give you the home that best reflects

to the clean lines and balance we created, the

your lifestyle. With that in mind, we love getting

contemporary look was not lost.

to know our clients, where they have traveled us express the individuality and uniqueness that

Maison Luxe is a full-service interior design firm

the client wants for their home. We love being

and gift store located in Hermosa Beach. We

able to earn the trust of our clients in order to

have been serving our clients in the South Bay

make a space that feels like them.

146

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING

and what makes them who they are. This helps TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

KONNI TANAKA INTERIOR DESIGN Konni Tanaka

2325 Palos Verdes Dr. West, Suite 207 Palos Verdes Estates 310-265-3632 | info@konnitanaka.com konnitanaka.com

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

the client embraces. Our clients are inter-

This Rolling Hills ranch home remodel included

national with varied interests, and we enjoy

a new kitchen and two bathrooms. The owners

expanding our horizons to learn about the cul-

wanted an easy elegance befitting the lifestyle

tures and lifestyles they value. Fine art paint-

of this equestrian neighborhood. We raised the

ings and colors in the natural world inspire our

ceiling in the kitchen; the rough wood provides

color palettes. Traditional crafts, along with

a leisurely contrast against the refined cabinets

natural woods and stones, help us develop

and backsplash. In the main bathroom, similar

textures for our designs.

beams were paired with soothing tiled walls and floor and a long vanity in a similar wood—

HOW ARE CLIENTS EXPRESSING THEIR

creating a charming spa space for a luxurious

INDIVIDUALITY IN THEIR HOMES?

soak in the tub. The guest bathroom sports a

Our clients appreciate that we listen and design

lively striped tile and unique pendants.

their homes to reflect their lifestyles, cultures and aspirations. Homes can inspire the owners.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

Everything in a room can have an association,

We provide interior space planning and interior

and we strive to incorporate meaningful asso-

design, including reconfiguring spaces, design-

ciations in the colors, materials and items that

ing custom millwork, custom furniture design,

are used. Accent pillows and artwork are popu-

and furniture and accessories specification. We

lar ways to express individuality. Clients love

use 3D CAD renderings to help our clients visu-

the textiles and wallpaper we suggest because

alize the design. We love helping people create

they come in so many patterns, colors and tex-

personalized homes that refresh and inspire.

tures. Custom case goods are a wonderful way to create very unique designs.

INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK?

HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS STRENGTHEN

The home’s architecture is the first go-to in-

THEIR CONNECTION TO NATURE?

spiration. We want people to enjoy a cohesive

In addition to personal aesthetics, I believe

design experience of the home, and we strive

bringing nature into the home inspires and

to have interiors complement the architecture.

refreshes people. In traditional Japanese archi-

Californians embrace an indoor-outdoor life-

tecture and interior design, the appreciation

style, requiring a seamless flow between the

of nature has always guided design. We give a

rooms and outside spaces.

lot of thought to using natural materials and to

The client’s inspirations are key to directing

space planning and furniture layouts that bring

our designs. That means studying geographi-

in sunlight, frame views and create a natural

cal locations or design styles or interests that

flow in the rooms.

148

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAVID WILLIAM PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES OF

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

CAROLINE BURKE DESIGNS AND ASSOCIATES Caroline Burke 1020 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Suite 210, Manhattan Beach 310-546-6862 | info@carolineburkedesigns.com carolineburkedesigns.com Instagram: @carolineburkedesigns Facebook: @carolineburkedesignsandassociates

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

large glass doors that you can open and make

This California Spanish home is one of a

the outside area part of the interior of the home.

kind with breathtaking views of the Queen’s

We live in beautiful southern California, and it’s

Necklace. All the rooms were designed to be

so nice to have the beauty of the exterior merge

extremely comfortable and full of charm. The

with the beauty of the interior of a home.

custom carved furniture and rich fabrics are a true reflection of the client’s exquisite taste.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CLIENTS’

This is a beautiful home that is always filled

ART COLLECTIONS.

with the love of family and friends.

When my clients travel, I always tell them to purchase art. Whether it’s from an artist on

HOW ARE CLIENTS EXPRESSING THEIR

the streets of Paris or a gallery in Carmel, art

INDIVIDUALITY IN THEIR HOMES?

tells a story. It is a great conversation piece.

Clients want a comfortable home that reflects

Art is personal, and I love having that personal

their personal lifestyle. Clients are leaning

touch in each room of the home. The featured

more toward color throughout the house. I

project has spectacular art that was collected

am even getting a lot of requests for colors

over many years of travel.

on cabinetry versus the basic white that has been so popular for years. Color is fun—don’t

WHICH HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

be afraid!

ARE YOUR CLIENTS ASKING FOR MOST?

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES OF

remodel projects. Lately, people spend much

INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK?

of their time at home and have realized that

Most of my inspiration comes from traveling. I

they needed some refreshing. We are also

love to travel, and it not only inspires me but it

getting a lot of calls to refresh and update all

energizes me to be even more creative. I love

the furnishings.

to bring the essence of a five-star hotel into the home.

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF. My ideal day off is to drive somewhere and

HOW DOES YOUR WORK HELP CLIENTS

discover something new. We have amazing

STRENGTHEN THEIR CONNECTION

museums and places to discover in Southern

TO NATURE?

California. Traveling out of the area—even if

I focus on views and use colors that comple-

it’s for a day—refreshes my mind and nour-

ment the view. I never cover up a view. I love

ishes my soul.

150

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARK LOHMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Currently we have gotten a lot of calls for

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

AMORPHOUS STUDIO LLC Ronnie Gor 19315 Wells Dr., Tarzana 310-633-4735 | ronnie@amo.studio amorphousstudio.net

In this design we sought to blur the boundaries between inside and outside. The use of glass and solid forms clad in carefully selected textures and tones completes the look. The house is carefully crafted around an existing pool and

tegic pops of color in tiles, indoor and outdoor plants, art and other furnishings. Artificial lighting follows the placement of furniture and circulation within the house.

cedar tree. We added a lily pond and drought-

WHICH HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS ARE YOUR CLIENTS ASKING FOR?

tolerant landscaping. Much attention was paid

Kitchen remodeling, bathrooms, family and

to the orientation of the spaces inside the

living rooms, and home office. Multiuse or

house with respect to the sun’s movement and

multipurpose spaces—including adding an

its impact on different times of the day. This

ADU—work great when we have kids and aging

project was recognized by AIA SFV for Design

parents in the family. Healthy lifestyles and men-

Excellence 2017.

tal well-being are the most important aspects of

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS. Amorphous Studio is a design-build business; we frequently build the homes we design. I am a licensed general contractor and have been educated and trained in the field of architecture. I am on the board of the Association for Women in Architecture and Design and the American Institute of Architects, San Fernando Valley.

152

geometric patterns used minimally, and stra-

today’s post-COVID-19 placemaking.

HOW DO PASSIVE HOUSES CONTRIBUTE TO IMPROVING THE HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF THOSE WHO DWELL THERE? Natural light brings in a lot of cheer, positivity, and energy savings in heat and electrical usage—ultimately helping lessen the carbon footprint and achieving sustainability. Fresh air and ventilation improve our health and save

HOW CAN WE KEEP A MINIMALIST APPROACH FROM BEING BORING?

energy. Using green materials with a low impact

By bringing in natural light through windows,

labor and locally sourced materials help the

doors and skylights. It is all about being in

environment by creating less pollution in travel

balance and harmony with colors, textures

and manufacturing. Using existing structures and

and the flow of spaces—nothing overpower-

terrain preserves wildlife habitat, underground

ing. I am very mindful of one’s feelings in the

reservoirs, trees and plants, and places less

space they are in and the emotions that a

impact on our city’s utility departments.

space evokes due to the way it is put together.

Greywater recycling, rainwater harvesting,

We bring in some fun and life through use of

passive cooling and heating, and solar panels are

natural materials like stone and marble with

some other sustainable methodologies.

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

on our environment saves our planet. Local

PROJECT PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN ARNOLD

DESCRIBE THE FEATURED PROJECT.

DESIGN SHOWCASE 2022

FI N A L O F F ER

— JORGE LUIS BORGES Remembering South Bay builder Kim Komick (1961–2022)

154

SOUTHBAY HOME I 2022

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY

“NOTHING IS BUILT ON STONE; ALL IS BUILT ON SAND. BUT WE MUST BUILD AS IF THE SAND WERE STONE.”

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