I
n the early 20th century, f ilm director Thomas Ince founded
Inceville, a studio ranch spanning over 19,000 acres
alongside the Pacif ic Ocean that, by the mid-1920s, would be
transformed into the small residential haven of Pacif ic Palisades,
then populated by only about 100 homes. Back then, like now, the
cool, sunny climate and vast views stretching over mountains and
ocean were a major attraction for prospective residents. Add to
that a family-friendly local culture, superb schools and a leisured
downtown and it's clear how Pacif ic Palisades remains a sought-
after star of aff luent Los Angeles living.
In the Upper Riviera, a particularly desirable Pacific Palisades
neighborhood known for its expansive lots, sweeping views and
serene brand of privacy, is a new
luxe hideaway: a five-bedroom
designer home set on nearly one
acre of land. e home's sharply
contemporary silhouette is
ideal for its surroundings, and
exceptional for the area, which is
largely populated with traditional
shingle and Mediterranean
sles. Cradled by mountain and
ocean views and flush with big
sky panoramas everywhere you
look, the proper's clean cut, white-wall
architecture is a dramatic showcase for its
natural, larger-than-life environs.
"It's got the most amazing views of
the ocean and Santa Monica Mountains
Conservancy, and the quality of
construction is just over the top," says
Santiago Arana, real estate agent and
managing partner at The Agency. "It has
so much sunshine and high ceilings,
it's almost like an art gallery." There are
marble features throughout the home and
the kitchen is stocked with cutting-edge appliances. Handcrafted
details, such as the exposed bar-joist ceiling with metal decking in
the main living space, gild the home with a dramatic, industrial
feel. Floors are an inviting mix of French oak and concrete.
With a soft gray patina, etched with a map of swirls and veins,
the concrete f loors add warmth and visual depth to the home's
minimalist design.
The home's central living space is on the main level, a place
of soaring ceilings that includes a spacious living room, dining
room and chef 's kitchen that meld with the outdoors via a pocket
door stretching from f loor to ceiling. Outside, there's a landscaped
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