Living in America

Once upon a time, in a Malibu oasis, Thornton Abell designed a studio and residence of artist Rico Lebrun (an Italian born painter and sculpture, responsible for impressive exhibitions at the Guggenheim and Bambi, in Disney's feature film). A central atrium, a heart, tucked deep inside, with the rest of the space pin-wheeling off it, makes up the basis of this house - a subtle separating process. These exaggerated proportions have since been redeveloped by Space International from the original design, opened up with extensive use of skylights to contrast against the Brazilian walnut and pearwood cabinets.