EXCLUSIVE: L.A. Architect’s Beautiful Venice Retreat—With Its Own Meditation Altar—Hits the Market for $4 Million

A beautiful California residence that was conceived by renowned Los Angeles architect Charles Ward as his own private retreat has hit the market for just under $4 million.

Built in 1988, the Venice property was designed to "unfold like a wonderful book," according to the listing, which is held by Mark Kitching of Douglas Elliman and calls careful attention to the unique inspiration behind the structure and style of the one-of-a-kind abode.

Ward, who was known for his unique blend of clean lines, industrial materials, and organic accents, meticulously planned the layout of the home to serve as a true sanctuary, one that has been carefully maintained over the years—while undergoing several elegant upgrades.

"This home feels layered with purpose, not just designed—where every space carries a point of view," the listing goes on.

Concrete floors are softened by painted wooden ceilings and limestone washed walls, while large windows flood the entire property with sunlight, casting unique hues across its living spaces at different times of the day.

"Light is intentionally invited through clerestory windows, French doors and corridors," the description notes. "Clean lines are softened by texture. Materials are layered in a way that feels warm, not precious—designed to age, to be used, to tell a story over time."

A fireplace in the main living room creates a very cozy feel, further emphasized by the use of a projector, which immediately turns the whole space into a private movie theater.

The weathering of the materials used throughout the home adds another layer of comfort and homeliness to the property, which features three bedrooms and four bathrooms, as well as an array of much more atypical features, including a private wellness space and meditation altar on the second floor.

However, because of the clean, simple layout of the home, the listing notes that it holds a world of possibility for a future owner, who can adapt each space to fit their own needs.

Despite that open-plan design, the property feels incredibly private, thanks in large part to the high hedges and concrete walls that surround it, helping to create the feeling of an isolated oasis, despite the dwelling being located in one of Venice's most sought-after areas.

That plum location also affords easy access to the beach, which sits just a 17-minute walk away.

"Moments from Abbot Kinney and the beach, yet distinctly its own world. For those who value richness, quality, and character," the description notes.

However, after setting foot on the property, some may find it hard to ever leave it—particularly when they discover the stunning outdoor space, which boasts a covered patio, ideal for wining and dining guests, as well as a lap pool that spans the length of the dwelling.

Another rare feature of the property is its lot size which, at 5,658 square feet, is among the larger parcels typically available in Venice.

Inside, elegantly appointed living spaces create a true sense of peace and quiet, with an emphasis on blurring the lines between the indoors and the grounds, something that makes the property feel even more expansive.

"The living spaces flow easily into the outdoors, creating a rhythm that suits both slow mornings and evenings with people you want to linger with," the listing adds.

While the property currently boasts a very minimalist aesthetic, the clean, simple design can be viewed very much as a blank canvas for a future owner, who can adapt each space to suit their own personal style.

"Upstairs, the primary suite has a generous adjacent atelier, with a simplicity that lets the light and materials inspire your most beautiful work," the listing goes on.

Two of the bathrooms feature large soaking tubs, ideal for relaxing—while the primary suite also boasts access to a private patio that is accessed through French doors that open up to the outdoor space.

In another nod to its adaptability, the listing notes that the fourth bedroom in the home is being used as a private office, while the secondary suite inside the dwelling has been turned into the aforementioned wellness space.

"Rather than a typical spec home, this property reflects a deeply personal approach to design, where every space is layered with purpose, materiality, and a clear point of view," a description provided to Realtor.com® adds.