SOUTH BAY DIGS | Digital Edition Online

66 DIGS.NET | 3.19.2021 S W E E T D I G S | 2 6 1 8 M A N H AT TA N A V E N U E M A R K E T t was a meeting of minds and hands that produced this eye-catching, just-completed residence along the Strand, between 5th and 6th Streets, in Manhattan Beach. "I would call this the center of the bullseye in terms of location," says Robb Stroyke, real estate agent. There's great walkability—a 5-minute stroll to Downtown, along with an atmosphere that feels well apart from the fray. And more upside that comes from the flat, even slope of the beach at this section, which creates a seamless feel between your home and the beach. "Being able to step right onto the sand," Stroyke explains, "it's really special." This natural asset was positively exploited in the 5-bedroom home, which is approximately 4,325 square feet in size and the product of prolific Beach Cities designer Jon Starr (Starr Design Group), along with frequent custom build partner Steve Larkin (SRL General Contractors). Caitlin Larkin of SRL General Contractors was co-interior designer on the project, working with the homeowner to create the distinctive look—starting at the exterior—of this well-crafted home. Inside the look is one of refinement, smartly punctuated with one-of-a-kind elements— think reclaimed and re-purposed materials alongside familiar markers of elegance, like marble and French oak. "The home- owner has her own design aesthetic," explains builder Larkin. "We worked with her to create something that is in the time of right now." Angular and featuring floor-to-ceiling glass, the home's contemporary silhouette has an industrial look thanks to its dark exterior—atypical for beach homes. "Stylistically," says Starr of the residence, "it's going to stand out and make a statement." Purchased in 2007 by the homeowner, the home was used as a summer family getaway until she decided to take it down to the studs and completely revision it. "I basically designed the house the way I would want to live in it," says the home- owner. "I wanted it to be really beautiful and chic, but I also wanted it to be very comfortable and casual." With firsthand experience of living at this address, she was keenly attuned to the ins and outs of the property. This knowledge translated to a new home with a strong user-friendly quality. Come in sandy from the beach? No problem. When you enter on the first level, the floors are made of handcrafted stone. The second and third levels feature floors of pale French oak, lending a sense of warmth to the interior of the home, partic- ularly as it visually links to the pale blue sea and sky. Decks and patios, where much time is spent soaking up the strik- ing Pacific Ocean panorama that includes scenic Manhattan Beach Pier, are also stone—a mix of Belgium Bluestone and Peacock Pavers, which are remarkably tough and elegant-look- ing. Likewise, bathrooms—six total—feature a deft mix of tile I "Stylistically," says Starr of the residence, "it's going to stand out and make a statement."

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