laurel way by whipple russell architects overlooks los angeles

laurel way by whipple russell architects overlooks los angeles
all photos by william maccollum, art gray photography
all images courtesy of whipple russell architects

positioned on a plateaued area of land in california’s beverly hills, whipple russell architects has completed ‘laurel way’, a residential property providing impressive views across los angeles. working closely with the client, each aspect of the design has been individually crafted, responding directly to the unique demands of the site. accommodating the region’s fondness for outdoor living, special attention was paid to the project’s decks, patios and terraces, ensuring a constant and intimate relationship was established with the surrounding environment.

the building is positioned on a plateaued area of land in beverly hills

on approaching ‘laurel way’ steps lead through a 14-foot tall wooden door, cut out of the private and secluded façade presented to the street. upon entering, a foyer area connects the programs of the scheme, with a glazed section of flooring revealing the wine cellar below. the home’s living quarters employ contrasting materials, with dark chocolate tones complimenting the white floors and custom-made furnishings.

the internal courtyard

cantilevered wenge wood stairs lead to bedrooms at the upper levels of the property, where the master bedroom opens out on to an expansive roof deck complete with a jacuzzi and further areas of external recreation. throughout the design, variation of textures and materials presents smooth and rough surfaces which compliment the symmetrical beams, panels and tiles. internal wall planes do not meet the ceiling, instead leaving a half-inch gap, contributing to the sense of weightlessness which permeates the residence.

an external terrace provides an extension of indoor living accommodation

at the rear, fluid and curves forms are introduced, with tiers of greenery and the use of water contrasting the architecture’s horizontal and vertical surfaces. the horseshoe shaped channels which surround the dwelling, establish the house as an island floating above the californian landscape, while also embodying the characteristics of a moat, adding a protective boundary without obscuring views. the moat flows into an infinity pool which serves as a mirror reflecting the surrounding landscape, and offering panoramic views across the city below.

a horseshoe shaped moat surrounds the design

a five car garage utilizes the dwelling’s glazed elevations to become a showroom, proudly exhibiting the client’s collection of automobiles. above, a spiral staircase leads to an extensive guest suite which includes a writing studio, a gym and a private terrace overlooking the pacific ocean. additionally, a automated system allows the home’s inhabitants to adjust heating settings, water features, lighting and electronic window shades at the touch of a button.

internal space is clearly defined and well organized

one of the dwelling’s many areas of relaxation

deep chocolate tones compliment the white floors and custom-made furnishings

the master bedroom, which offers expansive views across the sprawling city

a roof terrace encourages the region’s fondness for outdoor living

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project info:

architect: marc whipple AIA
project manager: andrew takabayashi
interior designer: michael palumbo
completed: october, 2013
area: 931 sqm (10,025 sqf)
photography: william maccollum, art gray photography