John Street

Located on a hilltop in coastal Manhattan Beach, this Spanish Revival estate synthesizes a rich Southern California architectural legacy with a contemporary lifestyle. Our approach was clear and simple: envision an estate that was honest to its context, embodies the heart of an immediate family, and becomes a home for extended family members and friends alike.

Through a traditional courtyard site plan, we were able to achieve this vision by embracing the inherent complexity of our clients' program. Much as the spokes on the hub converge to strengthen a bicycle wheel, the courtyard serves to unite the disparate elements of the home, energizing a central, common area of activity. Visual and physical connections are created, while intimacy and privacy are simultaneously fostered.

Beyond the courtyard, whitewashed plaster volumes begin to define several indoor outdoor spaces where natural light highlights the home's exquisite detailing. Graceful millwork and a colorful palette of mosaic tile all serve to accent the architecture. Beautifully woven fabrics and tapestries add an additional layer of detail and softness to the aesthetic.