With its treehouse-like ambiance and terraced layout that follows the contours of the landscape, the Rustic Canyon Residence by Assembledge+ perfectly slots into its Pacific Palisades backdrop. The site holds a significant architectural history — it was originally built in 1923 and later remodeled by renowned architect Richard Neutra in 1937. Following its unfortunate destruction in 1993, Assembledge+ stepped in to revive and reinterpret the home in a way that honoured its legacy and natural setting.
The new residence is a careful balance of vertical and horizontal elements. It emerges organically from the hillside, simultaneously anchored to the earth and floating among the treetops. The studio generously used Western Red Cedar indoors and outdoors, and contrasted this with brick, cork, ebonized oak, and black metal.
Inside, the home revolves around connection. An open-plan kitchen flows into a dramatic double-height living room that segues into the expansive outdoor deck. A custom fireplace featuring a distinctive Stan Bitters mural serves as an artistic divider between living areas while maintaining the open feeling.
In the rear yard are an infinity pool and spa that seems to merge with the horizon beyond. Upstairs, views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica mountains can be savoured from the primary bedrooms and a home office. Championing indoor and outdoor living, the Rustic Canyon Residence is a calming sanctuary that connects with the breathtaking canyon landscape. More projects from Assembledge+.
Photography © Yoshihiro Makino