58 DIGS.NET
| 7.10.2020
S W E E T D I G S | 2 6 1 3 C R E S T D R I V E
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n the midst of the Sand Section in Manhattan Beach,
one finds one of the most majestic scenes in the
South Bay. The rolling tiers of manicured green grass
and old-growth trees of Bruce's Beach form a splen-
did setting. Add the contrast of white-tipped waves
rolling onto the sand and an endless azure sky, and
the site is inspired, whether looking at it for the first
or millionth time. That's what high-end residential
developer Thomas Shin of Balios Capital thought
when he set about acquiring an expansive double lot that
bordered the park. Not just any lot; perhaps the most plum of
all, situated in the center position along the highest vantage
point along the park. "This corridor, from Highland to Crest,
has the highest views in Manhattan Beach," explains real
estate agent Shawn Dugan. "It's a sweet spot of elevated,
panoramic views that are unique in the Sand Section."
Looking for a design to make the most of this rare lot, Shin
selected Manhattan Beach-based Michael Lee to function as
both architect and builder on the project. "I wanted to bring
a different type of product to the area," says Shin, "one that
isn't seen too often." The result, freshly complete, are two
sleek townhomes—one located along Highland Avenue and
another tucked right behind it, on Crest Avenue. The home
on Highland spans about 2,700 square feet and includes
an elevator, while the Crest Avenue property is a bit larger,
measuring approximately 2,850 square feet. Both include four
bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms, and architecturally,
are beach contemporary to the core.
Notable is the balance of Lee's user-friendly pragmatism
with his distinctive visual style: an urbane yet unstarched
elegance that's warm and welcoming by way of carefully
selected organic materials and a master's command of natu-
ral light, honed over his 200-plus project career that's been
primarily focused in the Beach Cities. "The units are designed
to maximize the experience of the beach," says Lee. That, and
the rich stock of ocean and sky that's been optimized by a
plethora of oversized windows and floor-to-ceiling Fleetwood
doors. The islands in the distance are part of the scene too, as
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