Open House | Step Inside an Architectural Gem

February 27, 2018

The notion of the classic American ranch has been exaggerated in pop culture— so much so that rarely do we find such a brilliant example of its modern interpretation. Here, in sun-drenched California, Rancho Santa Fe is not characterized by roaming cattle, rustic touches, and that trademark triangle dinner bell hanging on the front porch. Instead, it stands as an unconventional oasis—the ultimate dream home for architecture and design aficionados the world over.

Renowned architect Guy Dreier has conceived a structure as functional and impressive as it is striking. From the moment you arrive at the private gated drive, there’s a sense of the significance that composition played in developing the estate over seven years. Meticulous landscaping is backed by mountain and valley vistas in the distance.

At the residence, two-story walls of glass reflect the myriad pools and water features surrounding the home, while inviting warm California sun onto contemporary sculptures.

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Through towering glass doors, a flowing and original open concept with soaring ceilings extends its greeting. Sail-like overhangs conjure images of the Guggenheim Bilbao, while elegant natural colors and materials provide a grounding presence. High-tech smart design allows the home’s glass walls to tuck away for the ultimate indoor-outdoor living. In addition to its open-air mastery, the ranch boasts stylish original furnishings and mixing blocked sturdiness with organic shapes, all designed by Dreier to complement the space.

The main living and dining areas play peek-a-boo through a fireplace with artistic and sculptural integrity. Strong stone floats between two stunning blocked columns above ambient, low-lying flames, standing as a living sculpture and focal point in this sweeping room. This magnetic design is not the only stunning fireplace in the home; the master suite also features a central stone mantel flanked by sleeping and lounging areas.

Elsewhere, glass and water envelop the guest bedrooms, offering a sparkling reminder of the pools outside. Loft areas offer privacy and escape, glass-encased walkways link comfort and repose, and significant blockade stairways offer their own impressive interior views. A massive chef’s kitchen dares you to open your home to incomparable celebrations—leaving the detached two-bedroom guest house for your most discerning guests.

Taking advantage of the Sunshine State’s progressive views and making the most of its ample natural resources, solar panels supply power, while a refreshing citrus grove and well-tended farmer’s garden ensure the busy kitchen will never be shy of fresh supply.

The wider grounds are punctuated with both exotic and local flora, handpicked by landscape architect Theresa Clark. And outdoor living is non-negotiable thanks to the stunning sports court, tennis court, private pavilion, and infinity pool. A separate high-tech, zero-edge lap pool with its adjustable water level provides for wave-making swims, minus the splashing.

Every square foot of the property is a nod to a love of art and museum styling as well as an appreciation of design principles, and a desire to dream bigger than most could comprehend. This ranch, then, is the pinnacle of a well-designed life.