A Modern Balinese Retreat
Located off a walk street in Manhattan Beach with panoramic ocean views, this 4,500 square foot residence was designed as a modern South Pacific Island retreat.
Drawing inspiration from their favorite vacation destinations, the client set the tone for their ideal lifestyle. The intent was to achieve an “architecture pure, clear, clean, neat and healthy,” possessing tropical overtones, natural materials and a hint of luxury.
Large operable windows and doors provide abundant natural light and ventilation. They allow for an open and airy feeling, while letting in the rhythmic sounds of the nearby ocean. Outdoor decks are oriented toward the horizon and set the stage for watching Southern California sunsets. Views are carefully considered, emphasizing a focus toward the beach, while turning away from the uphill neighbor. Window treatments are used sparingly as privacy is achieved with careful placement of fenestration in a relatively dense Manhattan Beach context.
Like many properties in the Sand Section, the building lot is long and narrow. Considerate of the twenty-six foot allowable building width and its disproportionate length-to-width ratio, the three level home plan is configured much like a boat. It is efficient and compact with a distinct fore and aft. In its center is a double-height Zen Garden that sits metaphorically at the helm and the heart of this home. Many rooms look down upon and out to the simple, clean grove of bamboo, stone fountain and outdoor lounge.
Equally as important to the home’s organization is the stair. Skillfully detailed as floating cantilevered teak planks and accompanied by a mahogany slatted ladder, this sail-like screen soars nearly three stories tall. Fine stainless steel hardware accent the rich woods as nearby thirty-foot twin mahogany mast-like columns support the floating roof.
Sensitive to the human scale and inline with the ship-like metaphor, spaces within the home are created in groupings, with more public entertainment areas (the living and dining room) together at the front, and more private family areas (the kitchen, den and eating niche) together towards the rear. All of these gathering spaces are located on the “upper deck” (third level) to have uninterrupted views of the ocean. Both front and rear areas have expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and accordion doors which open to generous outdoor decks. A unique metal shed roof is split with clerestory windows that run from front to back, allowing for natural illumination of the upper floor. Located below deck at the mid level, sleeping rooms are carefully planned with hallways used sparingly. Efficiency is key. The Master Suite with Balinese spa inspired Master Bathroom is located at the front of the home, while the two kids’ bedrooms are separated towards the rear.
From its organization and structure to its refined details and tropical finishes, this modern South Pacific Island retreat feels right at home at the beach.
