1131 Hill St

What began as a collaboration between architect and owner became a personal yet sustainable statement of playful livability. Architectural Designer Beck Taylor and owner Grace Phillips of GraceScapes Design transformed a 1940's cottage by adding a second story and stretching out the rear to meet the garden. In front, a generous porch welcomes the entrant to the open living and dining areas which wrap around the central stairs. The well-equipped kitchen and family room pivot around the major island and open to the fruit orchard and outside entertaining sites. Three guest bedrooms complete the ground floor. The second floor terminates the see-through stairway with a crow's nest study which in turn leads to the master bedroom with ensuite bath. Adjacent to the multi-purpose garage is an office with a half bath. The owner describes the complex as a "habitat, a habitat for wildlife as well as humanity" amidst tranquil verdure yet close to the heart of Santa Monica, Main Street, the beach.