More often than not, interiors try to bring the outdoors in by making the most of the natural light and maximising the view. But in the case of this Malibu mansion designed for the CEO and owner of landscaping company ValleyCrest and his family, the greenery was carefully planned afterwards so it could create a scenic synergy with the two-level, six-bedroom home.

The family chose interior decorator to the stars and TV personality Martyn Lawrence Bullard to design an abode that would attend to their every need and balance the beautifully landscaped surroundings. They’re very active, and love the ocean and beach life,” shares Martyn. The designer wanted the Malibu residence to be very different to the family’s other home base in Hawaii in terms of look and feel, but still maintain that easy-going beach mood. Martyn also included Balinese and Moroccan design motifs, which make appearances in the home by way of decorative accessories and soft touches, for a more exotic, global appeal.

Ethnic touches aren’t the only elements that add dynamism; mid-century vintage pieces found at Paris flea markets, London auction houses and New York furniture dealers also play a part in the eclectic home. The measured mix is exemplified in the dining room, where a cyan-hued handblown chandelier by Tobi Tobin is paired with 1940s leather dining chairs and a custom-designed table courtesy of Martyn Lawrence Bullard Design. Though the hardwood and dark leathers could have run the risk of making the home too heavy,” Martyn balanced the deep palette with stretches of white, beige and striking dashes of blue.

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