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It took the developer seven years to complete the mansion, one of
the most premium three-storey estates in Bel Air, a first and last
of its kind. Balakhani wanted to stretch the envelope on design
and luxury, maximizing views of the landscape, creating a sense of
indoor-outdoor living and building a striking facade that ensured
privacy from a 350 ft-long street exposure.
The linear rain-screen facade creates a sculptural and visually com-
pelling pattern along the street. This was achieved by a series of
flat and folded metal panels that clad the street-facing concrete
wall. The folded panels creates a random sculptural pattern that
becomes denser closer to the main entrance, which passively
guides guests towards the front door. Above the facade, an array
of curved steel beams support a continuous skylight, providing
ample natural light to the upper level of the house.
The entry gate features a water element that leads to a large piv-
oting steel and wood front door. Upon entering the house, visitors
are greeted by an open floor plan that connects all levels of the
home. A curving suspended grand entry stair descends to the
main, more public level, which includes the living, dining, family,
Poliform kitchen/scullery featuring the Phoenix system with elm
wood veneer, shaker modular backs, a bronze metallic lacquer
island, and gallery spaces. The indoor-outdoor dynamic is fully
expressed in all the rooms on the main level, where massive sliding
glass pocket doors connect the kitchen, dining, and living areas
to a floating pool and expansive outdoor deck areas with stun-
ning views of the canyon and the ocean. On the upper level, past
the curving steel staircase are the bedroom suites and the more
private master suite at the far end of the house. The lower level of
the house features the theater, extensive wellness spa area, gym,
gallery space, and additional bedroom suites. This level opens to
the large backyard, bar, entertainment area, and direct access to
the pool above.
The interiors of 1859 Bel Air Road reflect the synergy born out of
the collaboration between Tag Front and César Giraldo Design.
In every project undertaken by Tag Front, the interior design is
thoughtfully conceived as an extension of the architecture, creat-
ing a cohesive and unified experience. The distinctive architectural
style of the exterior serves as a guiding principle, influencing the
interior design choices in terms of color schemes, textures, finish-
es, and spatial arrangements. By carefully considering the external
context, Tag Front ensures a seamless transition between the
indoor and outdoor environments, maintaining a sense of harmony
throughout the design narrative. This comprehensive approach not
only allows the interior spaces to complement the architectural
design, but also enhances the overall user experience. Tag Front’s
expert use of materials like stone, wood, and metal creates a per-
fect fusion with Poliform’s kitchen and closet solutions, allowing for
a seamless integration that further elevates the overall aesthetic
and functionality of the space.
The interior decoration was guided by Balakhani’s passion for art
and luxury design. César Giraldo curated a selection of luxury
brands, with Poliform as a prominent choice for furniture, and the
results are evidenced in the stories the spaces tell. They speak
of a worldly, sophisticated person who inhabits a home as a king
does his castle, with pride. Poliform made a significant overall
contribution to the project by providing the best in luxury, quality,
and functionality. As one of the main brands selected, Poliform’s
furniture played a vital role in shaping the aesthetic and enhancing
the functionality of the space. Exquisite craftsmanship, attention
to detail, and high-end materials added a touch of elegance and
sophistication to each room.
A collection of rugs called Straight Lines Unexpected Curves and
a unique lighting collection were designed specifically for this proj-
ect, as well as a custom olfactory journey created in collaboration
with Parisian fragrance brand Ex Nihilo. This partnership between
design and fragrance has kindled a personalized sensory ambi-
ance, by elevating the atmosphere and transforming the house
into a home.
Integrated into the design is the work of international artists, such
as Pierre Bonnefille. Each element was carefully chosen to reflect
the homeowner’s refined taste and create an atmosphere of world-
ly sophistication. Noteworthy among these artistic collaborations
is also the exquisite painting titled Dancing Flower, a meaningful
and one-of-a-kind piece. Created through a collaboration between
Colombian artist Angelica Kastillo and a young Colombian girl
named Evelyn, this artwork graces the breakfast nook. Vibrant
and captivating, it features a gorgeous navy-blue flower against
an orange background, symbolizing resilience, and survival amidst
challenging circumstances. Proceeds of the painting will go to The
Espiritu Santo Project Foundation that César Giraldo founded in
Colombia to transform the lives of at-risk youth by providing op-
portunities through art programs and education that break the
cycle of drugs and violence.
Ultimately, 1859 Bel Air Road has been conceived to create a har-
monious balance between functionality and aesthetics, allowing
the residents to fully enjoy their private time and find solace within
the sanctuary of their home.
1859 BEL AIR
