Eric Evens, working closely with a team of colleagues at Los Angeles–based KAA Design Group, envisioned a house that was appropriate to its lush setting and would incorporate, rather than endanger, the numerous eucalyptus trees on the site. He even went so far as to configure the foundations for the eastern portion of the building so that they did not touch any root structures.

Having settled on a Spanish Colonial aesthetic that is historically appropriate to southern California, the clients requested an informal outdoor space with water features integral to the landscape. The natural slope of the yard readily accommodated terraces that progress down the length of the garden, passing through areas of differing function. The main upper terrace, adjacent to a loggia, is separated from a lower terrace by a fountain. From there, steps and paths move toward and along a simple rectangular pool, terminating at a pool house.