Mar Vista Residence by PPAA: A Sculptural Dialogue Between Geometry, Light, and Landscape

Located in the serene, beachside neighborhood of Mar Vista in Los Angeles, California, the Mar Vista Residence by PPAA (Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados) redefines the connection between architectural geometry and natural surroundings. With a design that harmonizes straight and curved lines, the 417-square-meter home creates a dynamic architectural rhythm that blends fluid indoor–outdoor living with sculptural precision.

A Coastal Context for Contemporary Living

Situated near the Pacific coast, the residence reflects the relaxed atmosphere of Los Angeles’ suburban fabric, where openness, light, and privacy coexist. The project originated from an existing rectangular configuration with two courtyards—one at the front and another at the rear. Instead of expanding outward, PPAA employed a subtractive design strategy, removing volumes to shape light-filled voids that promote social interaction and a seamless flow around the patios.

This process-oriented approach transforms the house into an open architectural dialogue—a composition of solids and voids that celebrates geometry, materiality, and human experience.

Redefining Boundaries Between Interior and Exterior

One of the central ideas of Mar Vista Residence is the continuity between interior and exterior spaces. The architects rejected the traditional concept of boundaries, creating cross-sectional spatial transparency that allows the eye to travel through the house in multiple directions.

Large openings and glazed connections enable cross ventilation, abundant natural daylight, and direct views of the surrounding vegetation. The patios function as natural extensions of the living spaces, reinforcing the Los Angeles indoor–outdoor lifestyle and offering tranquil retreats for reflection, social gatherings, or quiet leisure.

Architectural Form and Expression

The residence’s main façade is distinguished by a gently curved roofline, a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional gabled roof. This design move was not only an aesthetic gesture but also a response to local height and roof design regulations, proving that creativity and compliance can coexist beautifully.

By relocating the main entrance to the side, PPAA cleared the façade, allowing the front patio to open entirely through expansive glazing. This creates a transparent visual connection between interior spaces and the garden, enhancing spatial flow and interaction with the outdoors.

Spatial Organization: Living in Layers

The residence unfolds through two distinct yet interconnected volumes. The main two-level structure accommodates the social and private zones, while a secondary independent unit provides guest accommodations with privacy and autonomy.

• Ground floor: social and communal spaces—including the living room, dining area, kitchen, powder room, and semi-covered terrace—encourage shared experiences and direct engagement with the patios.
• Upper floor: private spaces include a master suite, three bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and a dedicated workspace, each oriented to capture natural light and outdoor views.
• Guest house: located toward the back, this single-level volume includes a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette, forming a flexible retreat for visitors or multi-generational use.

Material Palette and Atmosphere

Inside, PPAA curates a calm, tactile palette defined by oak wood, polished concrete, and neutral tones. These materials infuse the interiors with warmth and visual continuity while reflecting light to create a serene, luminous environment.

Externally, a striated plaster finish lends texture and depth to the façade, expressing the handcrafted identity of the home. The interplay between smooth concrete, soft wood, and textured plaster underscores the project’s balance between modern minimalism and artisanal craftsmanship.

A Geometry That Breathes

Mar Vista Residence stands as an architectural exploration of geometry in motion—where curves meet straight lines, and openness defines living. Through thoughtful materiality, passive climate design, and a deep sensitivity to context, PPAA’s design captures the essence of California modernism while advancing a new vocabulary of fluid architectural form.

Project Details

  Architects: PPAA (Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados) Location: Mar Vista, Los Angeles, California, USA Area: 417 m² Year: 2024 Photography: Luis Garvan, Fabian Martinez  

All photographs are works of Luis Garvan, Fabian Martinez