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fireplace that's designed with a classic white overmantel—
extending all the way to the ceiling. Floors are planks of white
oak, character-rich in grain and knot patterns, which create a
comfortable balance against traditional markers of elegance,
such as white-board ceilings and the classical millwork and
moulding that's found generously along the home's windows
and walls. Thinking of longevity, the wall moulding throughout
the house has been constructed from wood, versus the more
common but less resilient MDF (medium-density fiberboard).
"From the standpoint of quality and level of detail," Stroyke
points out, "when you are talking about homes in the 5,000
to 7,000 square foot range, this is one of the nicest homes in
Manhattan Beach that you will go through."
One of the most well-thought out homes too, when it comes
to meeting today's need for versatile, roomy spaces where kids
and adults can play, work and mingle for extended periods.
Five of the home's six bedrooms are situated on the top floor,
and the master suite is a distinctive marvel with its window-
wrapped sitting room and marble bathroom, where one can
soak in the tub while watching flames flicker in the stone fire-
place. Given its size, the home is equipped with an elevator
and full laundry room on the upper level (with a secondary
laundry option conveniently located in the mudroom near the
garage). It's also fully automated, with the ability to prescribe
two different zones of air conditioning for each floor. "You
really don't need to go anywhere," notes Stroyke. "You can
keep a large family completely occupied and won't drive each
other crazy."
Among its indoor and outdoor charms is a generously sized
lower level that, at approximately 2,300 square feet, offers an
inviting bounty of spaces to congregate and relax. Important
