Inside A Malibu Manse All About Views, Outdoor Living

For the renovation of a Mediterranean-style spec home, architect Paul Williger — known for his meticulous attention to detail — was set on creating outdoor living spaces reminiscent of Italian resorts and optimizing the property’s spectacular ocean views.

To that end, the family room and kitchen of the California dwelling feature a bank of arced mahogany French doors that open to a 12-foot-deep terrace with views to the Pacific.

In charge of the plant palette, landscape architect Richard Bartley also took care to protect the views visible from the interiors.

“There are no trees planted on the same level as the swimming pool,” says Bartley, who joined forces with the architect on solutions for optimizing privacy in all the outdoor rooms.

In response to Malibu’s inclination toward cold and windy nights, the living and dining rooms access a protected courtyard with a fireplace shielded from the elements.

Meanwhile, a mix of traditional and modern furnishings dot the interiors of the estate, with designer GeGe Pender incorporating subtle pops of color — such as the blue and gold in the living room and bedroom — to keep in line with the residence’s relaxed aesthetic.

Still, the home features unique accents that intentionally play against styles.

“If everything is expected the rooms can get dull–mixing in contemporary pieces keeps things fresh,” she adds.