Malibu Surf Retreat Malibu

When an avid surfer commissioned our firm to design a Malibu retreat inspired by recent travels to the tropics, we were immediately up for the challenge. The client’s passion for surfing is reflected in almost every moment of the home, which features program elements such as specialized storage for a large quiver, a work area to tune up and wax boards, a custom wetsuit closet, a golf cart garage to house the carts taken down to breaks, and an outdoor shower located steps from the primary bath for convenient post-surf care.

The exterior of the home, clad in reclaimed wood, references that of ad hoc “surf shacks” and shade stands, while the landscaping and planted courtyards – both interior and exterior – evoke the feeling of a lush, tropical environment. Inside the main level of the home, spaces were arranged to open onto terraces and to take full advantage of blue water and bay views. Wood terraces flow inside and become interior flooring, while large glass panels tuck away to completely erase the boundary between outside and in.

An assortment of site amenities such as an infinity edge pool, spa, barbecue, and trellis-covered outdoor dining and entertaining area are situated to embrace the views beyond and encourage guests to spend time outside.

Downstairs, evening-oriented spaces such as an intimate screening room, bar, and game area open onto a lower courtyard so that the connection to surrounding nature is always maintained.

Yet perhaps the most unique feature of this retreat is the surprise under the putting green, which doubles as a green roof for the hidden guest house that slips underneath, tucked completely out of view. Accessed via a descending stair that wraps tropical landscaping, its main space frames a magnificent panoramic ocean view. Here, the feeling of vacation never leaves.