Groovy Midcentury Modern Bel Air Cottage Asks $1.4 Million

More often than not, the old adage about some of the best things coming in small packages usually is spot-on. And that’s especially true when it comes to this sun-drenched, midcentury modern sanctuary spotlighted by walls of windows and jaw-dropping canyon vistas.

Nestled in Bel Air’s Beverly Glen neighborhood, adjacent to undeveloped parkland, the post-and-beam structure was originally designed by local Brentwood architect Bill Mack in 1958, but fell into disrepair in the ensuing years. Since then, it’s been completely updated by its current owners — interior designer and artist Christa Martin and her husband, TV executive Geoff Katz — and now the modest yet visually enticing treat is on the market for $1.45 million.

Though the couple retained the property’s original footprint, carefully preserving most of the windows and making sure to keep the soaring beamed ceilings and wood-burning fireplace, they set out to improve the flow and function by relocating closets and some of the doors. Also on their to-do list: completely gutting the kitchens and baths to create larger, more contemporary spaces. The result? A two-bedroom, two-bathroom home that’s as lovely as it is functional.

Expect to be charmed from the outset by an atrium-style entry featuring a striking double door painted teal blue, topped by a globe light fixture, and flanked by a set of slim rectangular windows and panels of reeded glass. Sparking a second look: the over-arching branches of a large tropical rubber tree planted between the walkway and a covered carport.

Once inside the single-story cottage, there’s just over 1,400 square feet of living space punctuated by an abundance of natural wood accents and by clean white paint, polished concrete flooring, skylights, and wood-trimmed, floor-to-ceiling doors and windows. Among the highlights: a spacious living and dining area replete with the aforementioned fireplace, which is adorned in Venetian plaster, and a doorway that opens to a serene enclosed courtyard bordered by fruit trees.

There’s also a sleek central kitchen outfitted with high-end Bosch and Fisher & Paykel appliances, and a Caesarstone-topped island sporting a sink and open cabinets on the side; and an alluring primary bedroom comes equipped with an ensuite bath holding dual vanities, an open rain shower and freestanding tub accented by blue Heath tile, and sliding doors that lead out to a boomerang-shaped pool.

Shelton Wilder of Compass serves as the listing agent.