This equestrian ranch in Mandeville Canyon, California is a beautiful, livable blend of Contemporary and Mediterranean architectural sensibilities. The house was originally created for two artists, husband and wife; one an architect turned director, another, a writer and sommelier. Both were very passionate about every detail that had gone into the creation of all their previous living spaces including a restoration in Italy and a loft in New York. He wanted Contemporary, she longed forromantic Mediterranean. We listened deeply and what emerged was the language of artists and a rewarding collaboration between everyone involved. Here are some of their program preferenceswe referenced in our design: Contemporary and Mediterranean architectural sensibilities The play of natural light constantly changing and emanating from surprising places A respect for nature and earth in color and textures Rich yet organic in appointments ‐ a rough luxury from water features to flooring Craftsmanship in every detailThis plan called for open, cleanly outlined spaces that flowed into one into another. Thick, clay colored walls with many deep portals create sculptures of light in constant variation. As in many of Marc’s designs the pool meets the edge of the house at a large expanse of glass, producing a dazzling effect indoors and out. Famed LA photographer Julius Shulman called the house “cellular architecture” as each room, though changing in height and size, transmits its own light in harmony with the whole. The clients called this their Xanadu Ranch. Often we stay involved as new owners move in and add their influence to the ever‐changing life of ahouse. Mandeville has since been leased for a time by Chelsea Handler, host of E!’s Chelsea Lately, and recently has entered another phase with a new family. They have engaged Whipple Russell Architects to exploring some modifications.