On this small foot print, we created a miracle. The existing structure was built in the late nineties on a postage stamp lot of 1452s.f.. The clients wanted everything. Three full bedroom suites with a large professional kitchen/great room for entertaining, plenty of storage, and an entry mudroom. This was going to be their pied-a-terre in the tony neighborhood of Manhattan Beach’s most coveted sand section. Being ranchers in Colorado, the clients are used to open spaces and plenty of elbow room. Our challenge was to bring the sense of space into a two thousand square foot of space.
We approached the project as if it was a lighthouse and a boat. It stands proudly on the corner near the strand overlooking the beach. Every square inch is considered, from the entry mud room to the origami desk that transforms from a closet to a desk. The enclosed stairs were opened up with open risers and glass railing. The mitered floor to ceiling corner captured the sense of the space beyond. Bringing the beach in was the goal. Though the house was built like a machine, the interiors is considered and soften with plenty of coastal elements for the ultimate California Coastal Living.
What were the key challenges?
The Small Footprint. Small lot and code restriction.
Who are the clients and what's interesting about them?
The clients are surfers that relocated to the mountains of Colorado. They now live on a thousand acre ranch, but wanted a pied-a-terre near the beach.
What was the brief?
Utilize every inch and create an indoor outdoor entertaining gather space for their friends and family.
Team:
Architects: SUBU Design Architecture
Interior Designer: Waterleaf Interiors
Photographer: Lauren Pressey
