A native son of Hawaii found this piece of paradise on Toes Beach in Southern California that reminded him of home. This secluded stretch along the Playa del Rey lagoon is a hidden jewel in the busy beach community within Los Angeles. The client came to Southern California to study film, so the dramatic scenery and cinematic lighting throughout the day was not lost on him. After a successful career in software, he finally found the perfect location to start his new life after an exhaustive search. But the house was dark and dated. He wanted to create a space that he can enjoy not only as a bachelor and eventually as a family within this tight knit community.
When we first visit the site, there were absolutely no connection from the main living space to the outdoors. You wouldn’t even know that this house was on the beach or had a view. After climbing a 12’ high exterior staircase, you would want to be rewarded with something. We opened up the entire living level with a staircase that is flooded with natural light and flanked with a display cabinet. We created a great room that incorporated a curated backyard for entertaining or just chilling in private with a view to the sunset. Designing with a future family in mind, we wanted each space to be usable with durable materials. But not losing any sophistication for the adults. The original primary bath was carpeted with a sunken tub that was enclosed. We obliterated wall between the sleeping and bathing, so that the entire space can be spa-like, thus enlarged the cavernous space. Now even the private ritual of bathing can enjoy the sunset view and connection to nature. Constructed during the Pandemic, we also created several outdoor spaces where the client can lounge and work.
What was the brief?
Create a home that can grow from bachelorhood to hosting a family.
What were the key challenges?
Dark interior and divided up small spaces. No connection from interior to the exterior.
What were the solutions?
Remove walls and leveling the backyard to a easier transition from the interior. We opened up the front to the back so that you can lounge on the outdoor bed and view towards the lagoon/ocean from the backyard.
Who are the clients and what's interesting about them?
The client is a successful single man that is looking to settle down and start a family that also wants to keep a stylish flair from bachelorhood.
Team:
Architecture & Interior Design: SUBU Design Architecture
Photographer: Manolo Langis
Materials Used:
Coastal, industrial, indoor/outdoor
