Concepts of modern sustainability got a large start in Southern California – not just because of progressive politicking and landmark legislation, but also in an effort to maintain the natural beauty of the region’s soaring peaks, deep blue ocean, and finely honed natural/urban balance. It’s within this balance that 1274 Lago Vista Drive exists– nestled on a crest, the stately and large home is still dwarfed by the natural, mature evergreens surrounding the front of the property and by the sweeping Los Angeles basin view below its tiered rear. More nestled into the land than placed upon it, the home blends itself into its surroundings, creating a natural sanctuary. With lush landscaping planted beyond the infinity-edge pool, the design team planned for the future by bolstering the hillside witha living, water-tolerant forest.

New constructions are also taking sustainable materials directly to their bones – beginning with less damaging materials in framing, innovative surfaces to cover floors and walls, and energyand cost-saving technologies built directly into the home. In the expansive 1460 Laurel Way property in Beverly Crest, the grounds take advantage of natural light, long-lasting stone materials, and next-generation heating and cooling features to keep the home comfortable and take advantage of the often-perfect cool mornings and warm days of its hillside locale. In fact, almost every room in the home takes advantage of its promontory vista by offering floor-to-ceiling windows, large outdoor patios, and minimal architectural elements to block sightlines, allowing for an unbroken view.

1700 Mandeville Canyon Road features a beautiful, tiered garden path anda huge yard with a twist – the grounds are loaded with sustainable, drought-tolerant species. From perfect specimen trees to a flowing lawn of seagrass, the surroundings of the mid-century home are at once gorgeous and long lived, able to grow responsibly with the home.