Designed as an extension of the home's entertaining spaces, this custom home bar combines timeless craftsmanship with practical functionality. Warm white oak cabinetry provides generous concealed storage, while floating glass shelves with custom brass supports create an elegant display for wine, spirits, and glassware. The layered combination of natural wood, marble countertops, and warm metallic finishes gives the space a refined yet welcoming character. Thoughtfully integrated into the butler's pantry, the beverage station keeps entertaining essentials organized and easily accessible without disrupting the flow of the main kitchen. Decorative lighting, custom millwork, and carefully selected finishes elevate this hardworking space into a luxurious design feature. Every detail was planned to create a seamless blend of beauty and function, making this home bar equally suited for everyday enjoyment and hosting guests. This custom beverage station demonstrates how thoughtful storage solutions and high-quality materials can transform a functional space into a sophisticated focal point.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

Destined to be without equal, this showpiece property designed by architect Batter Kay of Del Mar blends clean, crisp geometry an essential when creating beauty in form. Steel framing and extensive use of glass in the 2-story, open-concept residence fosters a sleek and modern design aesthetic. The high-volume entry space with floor-to-ceiling glass provides a strong indoor/outdoor connection with the large private outdoor spaces. The main level gallery consists of the combined dining room, living room with 2-story fireplace, elegant bar and sprawling chef’s kitchen. The chef’s kitchen features professional appliances, gorgeous Jurassic green countertops, breakfast room, and adjoining family room all with walls of glass opening to the private patios. Completing the residence are bonus/game room, office, 4 additional bedrooms and a master suite with dual closets, fireplace and incredible bath adorned in marble. Additional highlights include a 4-car garage, built-in sound system, detached 2 bedroom guest house. The design of the house is a contemporary masterpiece… and the grounds are magnificent. A 660 vine working vineyard, Gold Medal winning Bordeaux style wine in 2011. Tennis court, lap pool, greenhouse, cutting garden, fruit orchard, organic vegetable garden, blueberry patch, a ½ acre maze – yes, a real maze such as you would see in England, a labyrinth- astoundingly tranquil and a beehive with an Italian Queen who makes the most delectable honey. Pathways wind through this magical retreat and glorious views to sweep you away are breathtaking. Photos by Warmfocus and SD Aerial Media

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

This bedroom and full bathroom are part of an adventuresome project my wife and I embarked upon to create a complete apartment in the basement of our townhouse. We designed a floor plan that creatively and efficiently used all of the 385-square-foot-space, without sacrificing beauty, comfort or function – and all without breaking the bank! To maximize our budget, we did the work ourselves and added everything from thrift store finds to DIY wall art to bring it all together. A partial double closet bar adds a little extra space while still leaving room for longer hanging clothes.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

Fuchsia genii Le jardinet

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

Kerri Fukui
Living room library - mid-sized scandinavian open concept light wood floor living room library idea in Salt Lake City with white walls

LOS ANGELES, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Bel-Air House sits above Hollywood, along scenic Mulholland Drive, the storied thoroughfare that acts as a winding referee between the compact density of the San Fernando Valley, and the more ex-urban conditions of Los Angeles. In contrast to the client’s weekend beach house, here the client envisioned a home that could share equally in the energy of the city, and the rustic qualities of canyon living. The resulting home is both minimal and refined—its abstract forms read against the wilder aspects of its nominally natural setting. As a patron of music, and the arts, the client’s creative interests suggested the overall design approach: A simple yet sophisticated backdrop for the presentation of recitals, and the display and appreciation of beautiful artifacts. The house avows a museum-like attitude—the rich but restrained material palette draws from the colors and textures of the Santa Monica Mountains, and opposes natural with refined, polished with honed, quietly confirming a reverential aspect to this “temple on the hill”. The focus of the house is a dark and silent pool. Intended as a space of emptiness, the pool is an enigmatic statement—at once a source of origin for the house, as well as its apparent conclusion. The spatial aspects unfold from this moment, with the various rooms revolving around this essential void. The pool and its open rotunda echo the reservoir in the canyon below the house, while the ocean beyond ultimately underscores the house’s strong commitment to water. Simple stone walls, taut rooflines, and disciplined and minimal detailing allow the home to act as an armature for the client’s personal expression of taste and creativity. In complement to the client’s Mussel Shoals House, which suggests a relationship with the vast, and ever-widening horizon, the architectural resolution of the Bel-Air House emerges from the sheltered and enveloping emotion of the canyon.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.