- madisonbeam
Inside a Scandinavian-Style Southern California Oasis
First Published on Sotheby's International Realty Extraordinary Living Blog
In sunny Southern California, this light-flooded new 3,308-square-foot residence epitomizes the clean, fresh, organic minimalism and serenity of Scandinavian style.
An aesthetic that emerged in the early 20th century and flourished in subsequent decades, Scandinavian design is widely regarded for its simplicity, durability, and warmth. Blending neutral tones with natural woods in airy, light-filled spaces where form follows function, the singular style originated amid spare Nordic landscapes but has become a highly desirable choice in locales far removed from those chilly climes. On the convivial sunny coast of Southern California—steps from sandy Venice beaches and the trendsetting stretch of Abbot Kinney Boulevard’s shops, restaurants, galleries, and century-old bungalows—that clean, fresh, organic minimalism of Scandinavian design holds sway at this serene new 3,308-square-foot residence.
A dedication to superior craftsmanship created the home’s dramatic pitched roofline and full wall of windows, both of which recall a timeless A-line alpine retreat nestled on a snowy mountain slope. The sun-flooded interior spaces have a relaxing spa-like ambience, a painterly atmosphere reminiscent of the works of the Dutch masters, and walls and ceilings free from ornamentation, allowing crisp angles, natural hues, and suffusive light to take center stage.
A gated drive leads to a convenient carport just steps from the main entrance. Beyond a calmly composed den, kitchen, living, and dining spaces blend effortlessly in the heart of the home. Although sleek and streamlined, the kitchen is resolutely cozy and welcoming with its lengthy island, counter seating, wine chiller, honey-hued wood cabinetry, glinting brass hardware, golden glowing uplighting, gas cooktop, wall ovens, and sliding glass doors to a small secluded courtyard. Flowing from the kitchen are a dining space with a dazzling light fixture, an inviting living area, and another set of sliding doors, these opening to the backyard. Here and there, striking decorative fixtures and statement pieces catch the eye. Even the laundry room exhibits uncomplicated, self-assured style.
Reached via an unembellished architectural stairway, the upper level features a sun-drenched primary bedroom with a pitched ceiling, blonde oak floors, a sitting area with built-in fireplace, a wall of glass affording views of the sky and treetops, and access to a glass-railed balcony. The suite includes a walk-in closet with thoughtful built-ins and a tranquil bath with a soothing glow, a dual-sink vanity, a soaking tub, abundant storage, and a step-in glass-door shower with calming beige tile. Three peaceful guest bedrooms—one of which easily serves as an office with sunny windows—and two baths are interspersed with cleverly placed shelving and storage. On the walled rooftop deck, planters add a screen of leafy privacy.
The compound provides seemingly countless opportunities for outdoor living and reveling in Southern California’s temperate climate. One peaceful courtyard offers a fire table, a water feature, space for aromatic plants to flourish, and a high privacy wall. The primary courtyard boasts a minimalist concrete terrace with lounging and dining space, trellis fencing that encourages leafy green vining plants to thrive, an enviable outdoor shower, and a delightful galvanized-steel plunge pool. Although in the Scandinavian realm, this pool would more likely be replaced by a sauna, this home nevertheless epitomizes the simple sophistication of its Nordic cousins, affording a chance for its uncomplicated clarity to make the most of the warmth and sun of Southern California.
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