$3,995,000

Set behind tall hedges and mature ficus trees in gardens by landscape designer Jay Griffith, this three-story residence by architect Bill Tsui rises in crisp white volumes above an extra-deep saltwater pool, with a light-filled detached studio across the garden. Griffith installed the landscape and has continued to tend it ever since, and the house is built around two ideas: a first floor that opens completely to the garden, and two upper floors kept quiet and private, all on a 7,500 sq ft lot in the heart of Mar Vista. A new redwood front deck sets the tone at the entry, framed by sculptural plantings and fresh exterior plaster. Inside, wide-plank wood floors, expansive walls of glass and a sculptural timber staircase with geometric metal railings establish the home's character, with greenery in view at nearly every turn. Just beyond the entry, the dining room is anchored by a statement chandelier and generous windows. The adjoining kitchen pairs clean-lined white cabinetry and warm wood floating shelves with a generous center island, Bosch double ovens and a new refrigerator. The sunken living room is the heart of the house, wrapped in nearly floor-to-ceiling windows that look out over the pool, spa and gardens. A stone fireplace, custom hand-painted in lime paint and finished with a warm wood mantel, anchors the room, and sliding glass doors open straight onto the entertaining deck. Made for hosting, the house has welcomed a wedding reception, graduations and big birthday parties, with room for about 75 guests on the first floor and in the garden, and closer to 100 with the second floor deck and the studio open. Upstairs, the house turns private. A second floor den opens to its own deck. On the third level, a dramatic picture window frames the treetops and introduces the primary retreat, where sliding glass doors open to a private deck with views to the ocean. The suite includes two walk-in closets with custom wood cabinetry and a newly built bathroom with dual vanities, a freestanding soaking tub and a glass-enclosed shower. Outdoors, the hedges and ficus trees keep the house and pool private, and layered tropical planting closes the city out. The extra-deep saltwater pool and heated spa glow with underwater lighting, with a new saltwater system and a recently upgraded heater. A spacious wood deck, built-in fire pit and outdoor BBQ with sink set the stage for long dinners and afternoons beneath the trees. Across the garden, the detached studio fills wi