The project demonstrates how technology, planning and design can be applied sensitively to generate a comfortable, luxurious, yet sustainable family home.
Photovoltaic cells and solar water heaters are employed together with design for passive cooling and cross ventilation to reduce energy usage. Irrigation tanks and roof gardens collect and recycle rainwater; and the use of materials such as recycled teak and artificial timber adds warmth without compromising the finite resources of our environment.
The house is laid out around a central water court that forms the focal point of the project. Lushly planted roof gardens surround this and add to the effect that nature is evident in every part of the house.
Although the house is high tech – using state of the art EIB systems, photovoltaic cells, security systems – these are integrated discreetly and work with the natural environment of the house rather than against it.
This integration of technology and nature deserves special mention in a compelling design that could realistically become the model for sustainable living.

The commission was to create a complete interior design scheme for a 10,000 square foot modern main residence as well as a 2,000 square foot guesthouse. In addition to the interiors, Meg Joannides of MLK Studio was hired to design all 10 bathrooms as well as the main kitchen and guesthouse kitchen, in collaboration with Boffi. Much of the furniture was custom designed by MLK Studio and fabricated at the firm’s trusted local Los Angeles workshops. Briefed thoroughly by the client, MLK Studio worked with a neutral palette throughout the house, skillfully mixing textures to create the depth and layers that are apparent in the sophisticated design.

All materials that were specified by MLK Studio were thoughtfully selected to harmonize with the architect’s vision for the building. Walnut hardwood flooring throughout, as well as bluestone counter tops coordinate with the architect’s stacked bluestone walls. The kitchen’s palette of calacatta marble and high gloss cabinetry, as well as the master bathroom’s Turkish limestone walls and flooring underscore the client’s desire for a neutral palette.
MLK Studio became involved in the design development stage, collaborating with the architect, Hagy Belzberg of Belzberg Architects. Lasting approximately 3 years, MLK Studio’s involvement in the Brentwood project also included attendance at weekly site meetings during construction, as well as meetings with all consultants such as the architect, landscape architect, and lighting design firm.