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The black-stained cedar facade pops against the home's sprawling lawn and surrounding countryside. A detached carport sporting a similar style offers additional storage.

Double doors open to the deck.

The home features a combination of interior and exterior living spaces that afford privacy to the occupants. “There are social spaces for everyone to be together, but also spots outside the building where people can have a private coffee—and that’s so important,” says architect Line Solgaard.

Mike and Bryce planted dripping Algerian ivy to hang suspended against the raw concrete for a touch of greenery. "I always had a vision of growing plants on the facade,

Terrazzo floors and skylight up above add visual interest.

The family dog, Bruno, "loves to nap by the fireplace,

The firm modeled the home’s interior after typical seaside houses, with a light palette meant to provide a canvas for dramatic plays of sunlight.

“There’s a tradition on the islands to name things. These houses have already earned the nickname les pintes de lait—the milk cartons,

A stairway plays with light and form.

The central stair sits against a three-story mahogany cabinet that houses a powder room, a study, and a multitude of closets.

Swatt and the owners did bring some decidedly of-the-moment style to the primary bathroom, while still tying it to midcentury sensibilities.

Floor plan of Mar Vista Residence by AHA Design