Always wanted to commune with nature amid a picturesque oasis brimming with landscaped surroundings seemingly far from the hubbub of the big city — one with alluring succulent-lined hillsides, and meandering pathways winding through a garden laced with lounging areas and stone fountains, for instance? Well, if you’ve got an extra $8 million burning a hole in your proverbial pocket, this idyllic home in Brentwood’s Lower Mandeville Canyon neighborhood might be the ideal spot to put down roots.
“This house is so unique and special because it was built by a published designer for herself and her family, so the quality is through the roof,” says listing agent Nicole Howard of Compass. “ It is pure luxury surrounded by 80-plus-foot redwood trees. The property is very private, and the prevailing comment by everyone is, ‘You don’t feel like you are in Los Angeles because of its retreat-like feel.’ ”
Nestled on a heavily wooded parcel spanning over three-quarters of an acre — and beautifully capturing the leafy scenery via walls of glass — the secluded cul-de-sac property was originally conceived by designer Jackie Morgen and husband Lowell, and built in 1989. Updated inside and out through the years by the Morgens, as well as the current owners since 2013, the earth-toned structure displays a “desert modern design with Santa Fe touches,” per Howard.
“Others say it feels like a warm mountain-like home,” she adds. “Call it whatever you like, I just feel so homey and special whenever I’m there.”
A gated driveway empties out at a spacious motorcourt and an attached three-car garage, with a flagastone walkway leading around to a glassy double front door. From there, the equally enticing interiors feature four bedrooms and five baths in a little more than 6,000 square feet of three-level living space adorned throughout with high wood-beam ceilings, stone floors, antique Spanish-style doors and woodwork imported from Vietnam. Furnishings also are available for purchase upon request.
Steps descend to a cozy wet bar area, which connects to a sleek kitchen outfitted with wood cabinetry, an eat-in island, high-end stainless appliances and an adjacent breakfast nook. There’s also a formal fireside dining room, along with a master suite containing a stacked-stone fireplace, private balcony, walk-in closet and spa-inspired bath spotlighted by a sunken soaking tub.
Elsewhere in the house are family and living rooms, plus an office, a sauna, wine cellar and gym. Then there are those captivating grounds, created by Los Angeles-based landscape architect Patricia Benner, which also include a manicured lawn boasting a spherical steel sculpture by artist Gino Miles, as well as a fire-pit, built-in barbecue, sparkling pool and spa accented by a waterfall, and an al fresco dining area warmed by a stone fireplace. Why are you dragging your heels? Mother Nature awaits!
