Enduring Modern Architectural Compound

This Mandeville Canyon study of modernism represents the collaboration between its owners and architect Jesse Bornstein, AIA. References to L.A.’s great modernists like A. Quincy Jones flow throughout as Bornstein used the spectacular site and its tree-shrouded surrounds as inspiration for the custom gated compound. The sustainable property encompasses a four bedroom, three-and-a-half bath main house with an office, den gym, and a guest house with bath, pool and spa amid an arrestingly tranquil xeriscape.

Timeless and natural materials such as polished concrete, ribbons of black aluminum, gypsum plaster and a rich mix of woods like walnut and California Redwood blend with all manner and form of glass – clear, tinted, clerestory and retractable sliding folding doors — creating dramatic, expansive, highly livable space that seamlessly interacts with the natural landscape and light.

The two-story floorplan opens at its center into a gorgeous, broad living room and dining space with 20-foot ceilings, granite double-sided fireplace and walls of glass opening to nature. A superb gourmet kitchen with center island unfolds into the family room. An office, guest suite, utility room and powder bath complete the first level. An open “broad-lit” wide stairwell leads to a mezzanine open to below and gorgeous vistas beyond as the second level continues to balance proportion, light and a visual relationship to nature. The spacious primary suite rests in its own wing with a fireplace, generous his/her closet, and set behind exotic Shoji glass movable panels — a Zen bath with double vanities, spa tub and shower. Adjoining the primary suite is a gym and private patio with verdant overlook.

The opposite wing contains an open den plus two spacious guest bedrooms with full bath. A canvas of custom details enhances the entire living space — indirect recessed and modern lighting fixtures, Brazilian black granite, Pennsylvania flagstone, built-in speakers, shelving and seating, plus a security system, 6-zone HVAC, laundry chute, “green” low VOC paint, filtration at kitchen and pool house sinks, copper ion filtration at pool and much more. A large motorcourt for 7+ cars extends the 3-car direct garage space.

A rare architectural find in prime Brentwood, completely congruent with its sublime setting.