The Portage Circle Residence

topanga, los angeles

3 bedroom - 2 bath

(0 reviews)

Perks for the Parents

This multi-level architectural gem in Topanga has a pool and is 15 minutes to the nearest beach. It sleeps 6 + 1. You can get away from it all here in this mountain-top spot with views of the Santa Monica peaks from the balcony of the primary bedroom. The chef’s kitchen is fully stocked and there are 2 lovely dining areas in the main living space and outside on the deck where you can eat as the sun dips over the hills. This is an ideal spot to explore Los Angeles by day and retreat to peaceful nature in the evenings. Enjoy this magical spot sitting out back or on the deck watching the sunset and hawks soar overhead.

Why Kids Love it

The living space is open and large enough for toys or play mats. The house comes with plenty of books, Legos, board games, as well as outdoor activities such as swimming, ping pong and a trampoline. There is a playground and large ball field at the community center about 15 minutes away. Topanga beach is 15 minutes down the mountain – the house has an outdoor shower to hose down sandy kids (and adults). Go for a hike at Topanga State Park or catch a family-friendly show at the magical open-air theater of Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. A highchair and travel crib can be provided on request.

Things to Know

Minimum stay: 2 nights. Safety notes: there are lots of stairs inside and outside the house that are ungated so this may not be a good fit for toddlers. Parking is limited to 2 cars. Please note the pool and hot tub are currently unheated but during May to September the solar cover makes the pool warm enough to enjoy. No smoking, outdoor fires or outside noise after 10pm. A maximum of 6 guests are allowed. A car is essential to get around. Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), 30 minutes away by car.

About the Location

This retreat is in Topanga, a unique neighborhood known for its laid-back Bohemian vibe, located in west Los Angeles, California. It’s a small town within a big city with a family-friendly community and great breakfast spots, shops, gourmet grocery store, general store and pizza and burger joints. Topanga is peaceful and immersed in nature, yet you can reach downtown LA and all its top attractions within 30 to 40 minutes. Alternatively, drive up the coast and explore Malibu (20 minutes) and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Accommodation Details

This Topanga home has 4 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms on multi-levels. The main floor has an open plan kitchen / living area with a fireplace. Adjacent is a large deck with a table seating 8, a ping pong table and trampoline, pool and unheated hot tub. On this floor is a powder room with a sink and toilet. Going half a level down, there is another half bathroom, a double / full bedroom and sliding glass doors to the back yard and outdoor shower. Up from the main level is the office with expansive views. Another level up are 2 bedrooms (1 kids’ room with a bunkbed and 1 queensize) and a family bathroom with a tub and shower. Steep, narrow stairs lead to the loft where there is a full size bedroom.

Style Notes

California dreamin’. This gorgeous hillside home was built in 1974 by local architect Bill Adams and was positioned to take advantage of mountain views. The style is minimal but warm with natural materials and earthy tones. Vintage and handmade items, art books, house plants and cookbooks are dotted around, and the spaces are filled with sunshine. Views of nature abound from every room. The kids’ room is decorated with a calming palette and playful touches with original artwork. We love the oversized picture windows in the living room with dreamy views; the minimal and calming interior decor with textures and natural wood tones; and the fun architectural design.