Oceanfront Conversion: From Apartments to Single-Family Home

Project Info

Architect: Michael Lee, Michael Lee Architects, Manhattan Beach, Calif.
Contractor: Jeff Strnad, Beach House Design & Development, Manhattan Beach

Priorities

• Convert two three-story apartments into one single-family home

• Provide display spaces for the client’s large art collection

• Protect the art from the now abundant sunlight that fills the home

Solutions

When architect Michael Lee at his eponymous firm in Manhattan Beach, Calif., was tasked with turning two three-level apartments into one single-family home, he knew there would be a lot more involved than just knocking down a few walls. Add to that the clients were a pair of artists wanting plenty of display areas for their creations, and it was evident this would not be a standard demo/design-build job.

The home’s ocean views meant a vast expanse of glass, however a series of motorized roller shades that strongly filtered UV rays were installed to protect the large amount of artwork. The home’s materials palette — both interior and exterior — reflected the client’s passion for color and texture.

Judges’ comments

There’s an “open, airy … wonderful feeling throughout the home.”

Products Used

Bath fittings/fixtures: Hansgrohe

Brick/masonry: concrete (cast in place)

Countertops: Caesarstone

Flooring: bamboo

Garage doors: lauan

Roofing: hot-mop

Siding: Cor-Ten steel