Rustic Canyon Residence by Assembledge+ and Jamie Bush + Co

Perched on the crest of a westward canyon, Rustic Canyon Residence is a transformation of an early modernist home into a tree-house-like dwelling nestled amid lush woodlands.

California’s Pacific Palisades, known for its lush, leafy landscapes, boasts some of the finest examples of organic modernist architecture by icons such as Ray Kappe, Richard Neutra, John Lautner and Frank Lloyd Wright. Among these architectural gems sits Rustic Canyon Residence, originally constructed in 1923 and thoughtfully remodelled in 1937 by Neutra. Although the home underwent a disjointed postmodern redesign in the 1990s, Assembledge+ and Jamie Bush + Co have delivered a light-filled family home inspired by the site’s modernist roots.

Although the home underwent a disjointed postmodern redesign in the 1990s, Assembledge+ and Jamie Bush + Co have delivered a light-filled family home inspired by the site’s modernist roots.

“The clients’ brief was to create open, airy spaces and strong indoor-outdoor connections, with a material palette that complemented the surrounding landscape,” recalls David Thompson, principal and founder of Assembledge+. In response, the design team facilitated seamless linkages across three levels, harmonising with Rustic Canyon’s hillside topography. The home’s horizontal form follows the land’s contours, with open floor plans and large expanses of fixed and operable glazing, “accentuating the immersive experience of living among the trees,” says Thompson. These landscape connections are enhanced through site-driven materials – low-carbon western red cedar cladding spanning the home’s interior and exterior volumes is set against brick, cork, ebonised oak and black metal.

Internally, a double-height living space evokes a quality of airiness and repose, its loftiness capturing expansive views across the serene woodlands. At the heart of this space stands a striking free-standing fireplace finished with a brutalist ceramic mural by artist Stan Bitters, an artistic centrepiece and visual anchor that elegantly divides the kitchen and living room. A wide deck offers an ideal setting for relaxation and entertainment, “extending the living space into the canyon,” describes Thompson. Beyond, Assembledge+ introduced new retaining walls to define a rear yard, where an infinity pool and spa reach towards the horizon, elegantly blurring the boundaries between the home and its natural surroundings.

The home’s horizontal form follows the land’s contours, with open floor plans and large expanses of fixed and operable glazing, “accentuating the immersive experience of living among the trees,” says Thompson.

Designed to support family life, Rustic Canyon Residence balances expansive areas with intimate zones for relaxation and respite. The lower level, bathed in natural light, includes a theatre, music room and guest space, while the upper floor houses the primary sleeping quarters and an office, enlivened by panoramic views across the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains. “This suite provides a private expansive getaway with intimate comforts,” reflects Thompson. The home’s southern edge is finished with an overhanging trellis to minimise solar heat gain.

With interiors designed by Jamie Bush + Co, Rustic Canyon Residence blends local design traditions with elements of Japanese and Brazilian modernism, producing a nuanced yet unified aesthetic bridging openness, nature and thoughtful design. Reflecting on the home’s natural light, cross-ventilation and connection to the outdoors, Thompson says “its calming atmosphere enhances the homeowners’ wellbeing and celebrates the studio’s commitment to creating functional yet visually striking spaces that harmonise with the environment.”

Architecture by Assembledge+. Interior design by Jamie Bush + Co. Build by Ceci Clarke Construction. Landscape design by Chris Sosa Landscape and Terremoto. Structural engineering by Labib Funk + Associates.