Alta View Drive

The Alta View residence was designed for a young family with 4 children.  The site is highly irregular in shape and was occupied by a ranch style residence built in the 1950’s.  It faces east and has remarkable views towards Universal Studios, the Cahuenga Pass and  canyon, and the eastern San Fernando Valley.  The previous home was ‘remodeled’ by leaving a small number of existing walls.  The goal of the design was to extend the living area into the exterior and to provide for an ambiguous boundary between the exterior and interior public spaces. Large exterior areas are provided with roof coverage normally reserved for interior areas. The areas of the site which provided for the best sun exposure and views were preserved for exterior activities, including a new swimming pool, spa, outdoor dining areas and yards. Architecturally, the home owes a significant debt to the work of Richard Neutra and his later residential efforts.  Natural materials and clean geometry are prominent features of this home, integrating the building into its site and providing a warm, relaxing modern lifestyle.