A Treehouse Treasure Above the Coast – Casa Alta Took Five Years To Build

A Treehouse Treasure Above the Coast – Casa Alta Took Five Years To Build

Del Mar is one of Southern California's most tightly protected coastal communities, and building a new home in coastal Del Mar is notoriously difficult due to strict regulations, lengthy approval timelines, and limited opportunities for new development. It took over five years to bring architect Brian Church’s vision to life.   

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By Kimberly Ridley

Coastal Del Mar, California is one of the nation’s most luxurious beach towns. It was founded in 1885 as a seaside resort town by railroad official Theodore Loop, who declared it "the most attractive place on the entire coast.” Still famous for its Surfliner train that runs along its exquisite bluffs, it also hosts the stunning Del Mar Racetrack, a summer destination for world-class horse racing, and the San Diego Fairgrounds. It is one of only two places in the world where the endangered Torrey pine tree grows, and much of the city is made up of nature reserves. Building and development in this exclusive enclave is tightly controlled by both the city council, which aims to preserve the coastal resort atmosphere, and the California Coastal Commission, which seeks to protect the region's vulnerable ecosystem. 

A rare opportunity to own a newly constructed mansion presents itself with the listing of Casa Alta, a stunning modern-inspired residence perched atop a lushly wooded private parcel, for $16.5 million. The construction of this remarkable home was a testament to patience, requiring more than five years and an extraordinary level of precision and coordination to bring architect Brian Church’s vision to life. 

The gorgeous grounds are landscaped with mature trees, framing expansive ocean views and creating an atmosphere of seclusion. The residence has been designed to feel like a “tree house” above the coast, evoking the timeless elegance of Montecito or Pebble Beach. The home itself features the clean lines and geometric forms of a classic California modern, with all the convenience and luxury of a contemporary construction. 

Interior designer John McCulley curated a coastal modern aesthetic through a thoughtful mix of natural wood, stone, and custom tilework layered throughout the interiors. Five bedrooms and a tastefully appointed home office join seven bathrooms in the 4,725-square-foot residence.  A generous open floor plan connects a spacious kitchen and inviting living areas beneath gorgeous blonde wood ceilings. A massive fireplace with a sleek contemporary design anchors the family room, while the kitchen includes a centre island with seating. The primary suite includes a jaw-dropping mirrored walk-in closet, clad in warm hardwood. An elevator offers quick access to all three floors, and the house has been automated with the latest smart home features. 

Living and dining areas thoughtfully connect with beautifully styled decks and patios for the classic California indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The outdoor spaces are perfect for entertaining or relaxing, with a long lap pool with its own bathroom, lovely turf lawn, outdoor kitchen, firepit, numerous fruit trees and multiple spaces for lounging and taking in the peaceful ocean views. 

Casa Alta offers an unparalleled location, walking distance from the beach, Sea Grove Park, and downtown Del Mar with its celebrated shopping and dining corridor. The new owner will be in good company. Such celebrities as Bill Gates, Tony Hawk, and Aaron Rodgers keep beach homes in Del Mar. 

The listing is held by Eric Iantorno and Pilar Meza at Compass.

Photo credit: Sam Chen, alohaphotovideo.

Source: www.compass.com