LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
COASTAL COUTURE
A stunning Emerald Bay residence, meticulously designed by Summer Jensen, seamlessly blends modern architecture with sophisticated interiors, offering breathtaking ocean views and luxurious living spaces.
KATHERINE GANNON
Nestled on the picturesque coastline of one of Emerald Bay’s most exclusive neighborhoods, this luxury home stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of cutting-edge architecture and sophisticated interior design. With unobstructed views of the vast ocean, this residence embodies the essence of modern elegance, meticulously crafted by the visionary designer, Summer Jensen of Hawk & Co.
Situated at an elevation of over 200 feet above sea level, the primary living spaces of this magnificent home are strategically positioned on the upper two floors, ensuring that light floods in from all sides, accentuating the breathtaking views. A large atrium, connecting three levels of the home, serves as a focal point, maximizing natural light and offering stunning vistas at every turn.
Summer Jensen’s design approach is rooted in the concept of “the line,” a principle that guided the transformation of each space into a livable modern beach sanctuary. Her vision was to complement the sharp architectural angles with a clean, minimal palette, layered with textures and organic elements. This meticulous balance of structure and softness results in an environment that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
“The biggest challenge for the interiors was how to take such a large volume of space and give each area meaning or definition,” Jensen explains. “What makes a room a room? What is too little expression and what feels forced? What feels lavish in a minimalist home? The ‘luxury of space’ was a term that kept coming up when we were designing this home.”
The great room, a multifunctional space with continuous ocean views, is a perfect example of how architecture and interior design can coalesce seamlessly. With full-height operable automated glass doors, the room transitions effortlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces, serving as a canvas for the interior design. The choice of batten for the eaves, instead of a flat plank, adds warmth and texture, enhancing the home’s overall aesthetic.
Jensen introduced flexible areas for conversation and relaxation, such as back-to-back sectionals that extend beyond the sliding doors to the deck, where one can take in the views of Catalina Island and Crystal Cove. This thoughtful design ensures that the expansive views are embraced from every angle, making each moment within the home a visual delight.
The material selection was crucial in achieving the desired look and feel of the home. Clear western red cedar was chosen for its durability and even tone, which beautifully complements the batten design of the eaves. The complexity of the ceiling, with its need for precise lighting placement, was masterfully executed by Chris Gallo of Gallo Builders Inc., ensuring that each fixture was perfectly centered.
“The windows never posed a challenge for me. Expansive windows mean that the exterior architecture becomes part of the interior canvas,” says Jensen. “The exterior’s black-and-white permeated each space. Understanding the right amount of openness was always at the back of the clients’ minds. There was a very clear intention to keep the views unobstructed.”
The innovative pool design, featuring a semi-recessed infinity edge in all black granite, is accented by a rippling waterfall and a daybed platform. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures that the pool area offers uninterrupted views of the ocean, creating a serene and luxurious outdoor retreat.
One of the most significant additions to the project was the rooftop cabana bar and deck, introduced halfway through the architectural phase. This late addition exemplifies Jensen’s ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring that the clients’ desires for intimate entertaining spaces with unobstructed sunset views were fully realized. This rooftop space has become a favorite spot for the homeowners, offering the best views in the entire home and reinforcing the home’s status as an entertainer’s paradise.
Summer Jensen’s thoughtful and innovative design approach has transformed this Emerald Bay residence into a beacon of luxury and elegance. Each space, meticulously crafted and thoughtfully designed, ensures that the breathtaking views are a constant presence, while the blend of minimalism and organic textures creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. This home stands as a testament to what can be achieved when architectural brilliance meets interior design excellence, offering its inhabitants a truly unparalleled living experience.