Cortazzo Ranch

At a glance

Project by: Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design
Location: Malibu, California, United States

Preview image

Cortazzo Ranch (Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design)

© Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design

Project images

	Living room © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Living room © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Kitchen © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Dining room © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Master bedroom sitting area © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Master bathroom © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Sun room, custom designed log holder © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Guest bedroom © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Guest house one © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Guest house two © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Picnic table by the stream © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Pool area © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Pool cabana © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Main garden area with round sofa © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Main garden area with 18 foot sofa © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image
	Front view of main house © Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design View project image

Architect's statement

Martyn Lawrence Bullard designed a dream weekend retreat deeply nestled in the lush green hills of Malibu, California for his good friend Chris Cortazzo. As America’s number one real-estate broker, Cortazzo jumped at the opportunity to purchase the 1920’s Spanish-style ranch house when it reappeared on the market years after he had first spotted this gem of a property. Howev, it was only with the help of good friend and designer Martyn Lawrence-Bullard that the home was transformed from a dark and constricting space to one that is the essence of tranquility.

To begin, Lawrence-Bullard focused on creating energy, light, and space in the home. Lawrence-Bullard brilliantly knew exactly where to begin and with the help of paint, the removal of a few walls and doors, the home, a now light and airy space, began its transformation. The concept for the décor of the home emanated from Africa, one of Cortazzo and Bullard’s favorite places to travel. In keeping with this theme, Lawrence-Bullard placed striking photographs of the continent by artists such as Peter Beard, Herb Ritts, and Leni Riefensthal along the walls of stunning interior. Lawrence-Bullard also catered to the fact that, Cortazzo, who is a lifelong Vegan, feels deeply committed to his role as a caretaker of the environment. Lawrence-Bullard greatly understood these desires and easily interpreted Cortazzo’s ideals into an aesthetic that is one of thoughtful elegance. Throughout the home antique objects and furniture, salvaged woods, and even recycled denim insulation became integral to the environmental aspect of the space.

Located on thirty stunning acres, Lawrence-Bullard proved wildly successful in bringing to life four guest cottages, a pool area, and the fantastic gardens. The garden areas were thoughtfully transformed into whimsical spaces that simultaneously enhance and respect the beauty of the natural environment. Custom designed by Lawrence-Bullard, cozy couches made in sumptuous colors cheerfully provide comfort for those seeking repose in the out of doors. For Cortazzo, Martyn Lawrence-Bullard honed in on the true desires of his friend and brilliantly created a place of pure inspiration and relaxation, one that is sensitive both culturally and environmentally, and a get-away where family and friends can come together and enjoy veritable peace.