Designer’s Ultra-Modern ‘Treehouse’ in Pasadena Quickly Scores Buyer

A little over a decade ago, Los Angeles designer Leonardo d’Anconia set out to craft his very own family oasis — one that would mesh seamlessly with the natural surroundings, most notably a striking trio of mature oak trees anchoring the property. “We love the oaks and were intent on protecting them as they were the only trees on the property,” he explained, “so the design used them as a focal point and in a way that could maximize their engagement with the house.”

What emerged in the desirable San Rafael Hills neighborhood of Pasadena in 2008 is “Three Oaks,” a modern orchestration of white stucco and zinc-clad volumes that capture views of those majestic trees from virtually every point in and around the two-level home.

Now d’Anconia has chosen to leave his longtime residence, placing it on the market for a speck less than $2 million. But if you’re hoping to get your hands on it, you’re probably out of luck; it’s already under contract to be sold, with the listing held by Michael Darling and Sandi Rozman of DPP Real Estate.

Nestled into a steeply sloped hillside, on a gated 0.13-acre parcel of land surrounded by a series of private courts, decks and patios, the structure packs three bedrooms and an equal number of baths in 1,976 square feet of living space rife with alluring details. Think lovely gardenia-hued walls, dark-stained teak and white oak finishes, designer light fixtures and copious built-ins, plus clerestory windows, skylights and sliding glass doors providing an abundance of natural light.

Stunning from the outset is an entry court featuring a deck overlooking the sparkling lap pool below. Inside, main-level highlights include a double-height foyer that flows into a combined living/dining area that connects to a galley-style kitchen outfitted with Miele and GE Monogram appliances. Upstairs, the master suite opens to a covered deck with treetop views, and comes complete with a blue-tiled bath sporting a soaking tub sidled next to an open shower.

Outdoors, the terraced backyard hosts the aforementioned pool boasting a cascading waterfall edge, along with a fireside patio, grassy lawn abutting a garden and lookout deck offering up picturesque city lights views. There’s also a two-car garage.