This two-story residence is designed to offer a truly unique...

This two-story residence is designed to offer a truly unique retreat environment at Escondido, providing ample amenities to enrich one's lifestyle and blending seamlessly with the natural setting. The house is oriented to balance private areas with a variety of indoor-outdoor spaces opening up to the predominant views. Overall massing is influenced by Spanish colonial revival architects such as George Washington Smith, with architectural cues also drawn from the character of traditional Mexican houses. The architectural sequence features a double-height stair hall, entered from the garage by a covered arcade. Built -in shelving, Mexican tile, and a groin-vaulted plaster ceiling lend this space warmth and character. Passing through a series of arches 'en enfilade', one moves to the Great Room with its stained beam ceiling and large arched French doors opening to the outdoors. Adjoining spaces include a large Kitchen with tile details and a sculptural plaster range hood, as well as a covered terrace for relaxing or dining 'al fresco'. Plaster arches frame the two primary views, with a central fireplace the focal point to this outdoor living space for relaxing or entertaining. Living spaces include a Master Suite and Guest Suite, both situated on the main level. The Master Suite features a bay of three arch-top windows providing light and views, as well as a unique vaulted ceiling of stained wood beams and purl ins. The Guest Suite contains French doors opening out to a private terrace