When people ask how long Flavia and I have lived in Rolling Hills, I smile and say it’s been six years of pure gratitude. What I love most about being here is not just the quiet, or even the lush rolling landscapes, but the way nature feels like an extension of daily life. The community is tight-knit, respectful, and genuinely welcoming. It’s not simply a neighborhood, it's a haven where nature and community come together, making it a perfect place to live.

Our home is a Richard Neutra design, and living inside it is an experience that constantly reminds me of the genius behind his architecture. Neutra’s philosophy of connecting people to their environment comes alive here. The large windows draw the outdoors in, framing views of greenery, the ocean, and even Catalina Island in the distance.

In late afternoon, when the light is just right, the glass reflects the sea in such a way that it feels as if water surrounds us on both sides. That illusion never fails to stop me in my tracks; it’s a daily reminder that this house isn’t just built on land, but in harmony with its environment.

At about 2300 sq.ft, the house feels spacious but never imposing. The living room is the soul of it all. It’s where we gather, basking in natural light that shifts throughout the day. Neutra’s open floor plan creates both comfort and flow, making the space ideal for family time or entertaining.

The integration of indoors and outdoors is something I never take for granted. Sliding doors expand gatherings seamlessly into the garden. We’ve hosted up to 30 people, and it always feels effortless, as if the house itself is designed to celebrate community.

I would describe our home’s overall style as a beautiful blend of mid-century and Japanese aesthetics, a pairing that feels natural within Neutra’s framework. Clean lines and functional design bring warmth and nostalgia, while the simplicity and restraint of Japanese style add serenity. The result is an atmosphere that is calming, timeless, and deeply personal.

We’ve also added subtle touches of our own, like a skylight in the upstairs bedroom. At night, lying in bed and gazing up at the moon, I’m reminded again of Neutra’s philosophy: that architecture should connect us to the rhythms of nature.

Restoring and renovating during the pandemic came with inevitable hurdles; delays, increased costs, and the stress of balancing preservation with livability. We were determined to honor the original design while ensuring the house functioned for modern life. Every choice, from materials to finishes, was made with respect for Neutra’s intent. Looking back, those challenges only deepened our appreciation.

What sets this home apart is not only its architecture, but the way it feels. Light, space, and nature come together in a way that is deeply restorative. It’s not just where we live, it’s where we connect, reflect, and create memories.

For us, this Neutra home is more than shelter. It’s a work of art, a philosophy made tangible, and a daily lesson in the beauty of harmony between architecture and environment.