M
A
R
K
E
T
S W E E T D I G S | 2 3 1 6 T H E S T R A N D
have a lot of wood." On the south side of the home, a curtain
of glass stretches from the second to third floor, and wraps
into the roof. It allows light to flood the interior, cascading
along a floating staircase of reflective Brazilian cherry wood.
These two elements serve as a central anchor in the home, and
are smartly place adjacent to the most oft-used space—the
second floor. Here, a contemporary kitchen, designed with
dual stone-clad bars and streamlined appliances that sit flush
with cabinetry, is found steps from the sunny living room; a
place that becomes breezy and expansive when linked to the
large, covered deck. "There's something about the second
floor," the homeowner explains. "You have the view of the
beach and the horizon, but you are removed from the Strand.
You can't see it unless you go out on the deck."
The top floor is dedicated to sleeping spaces. There are
three ensuite bedrooms at one end that are linked to a commu-
nal study area. This is a delightful, kid-oriented feature of the
home, complete with lots of natural light and built-in wood
bookcases and desks. "It's very easy to entertain because
the bedroom level is separate from where you entertain,"
mentions the homeowner. Steps away from the children's
area is the master suite. This is a sophisticated space unto
its own, with dual walk-in closets and a dedicated office over-
looking the waves. The getaway appeal of this section of the
home is heightened by its private sunning deck. This, along
with a fireplaced lounge area and a bathroom that evokes the
look and feel of a luxury spa, down to the creamy slab soak-
ing tub poised in its center.
"The house is designed to optimize natural light," Chhabria
points out. True, it's been designed so that no matter where
one goes, luminous beachy light seems to follow. The third
floor, for instance, is home to five skylights; there's even
one in the laundry room. "Most people love the golden hour,"
says the homeowner. Yet in the morning the house is cool and
calm because of the sun rising behind the home in the East.
Many would argue however, that sunset is the best time here.
It's when powerful hues of purple, orange and blue stream
through the home's rich store of glass and highlight the beauty
at this hyper-functional and beautifully styled home, where
one can raise a family while also enjoying a life of entertain-
ment at one of the best points of the Southern California coast.
