as•tral /'astraəl'/ — adjective
 
of, related to, or resembling the stars

 
Named for the very stars to which it brings you closer, Astral House offers a majestic and elevated perspective on the two worlds that comprise Los Angeles. With a form that manages to be both softly organic, yet still imposing, this modern architectural flagship plays heavily on the theme of interlinked duality that harmonizes the natural wonders of Los Angeles' rugged mountains and ocean, with the surrounding city.
 
Astral House is neither designed like, nor bears a resemblance to any other residence. This immaculate must-see home, now on the market for the first time in its history, was commissioned by prominent art world figure and LACMA curator emeritus Maurice Tuchman, and designed by museum architect Brent Saville. Mr. Saville's use of graceful curves was influenced by the super ellipse invented by Danish poet and scientist Piet Hein and serves as the home's prevailing design element. The house's deep roots in the world of art make for a refreshing change from the almost endless supply of recent and ubiquitous moderns with designs that have become all too predictable.
 
Astral House offers a number of commanding vantage points from which to take in a variety of distinct views. From its magnificent tower, to its wooden Indonesian Ipe decks and its multiple large windows, unobstructed vistas of Runyon Canyon, downtown and the Hollywood sign are complemented by the westside mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The home draws on its natural and man made influences on both a grand scale and in the smallest of details. Some of the windows for example, were positioned by the architect in a deliberate effort to frame both its jurassic and modern age surroundings from the same standing position. Astral House then, is a living gallery that exhibits its environs across the passage of time, and exists as a work of art within it.
 
The gallery influence continues through the 5,600 square foot interior. Despite its bright volumes and many windows, one of the key design imperatives was to ensure that the placement of Mr. Tuchman's own formidable art collection would be well accommodated, making it an ideal showcase for a new owner's curated treasures.
 
This being Los Angeles, Astral House has also dutifully contributed to our city's illustrious movie legacy as the key setting in Steven Soderbergh's critically acclaimed 1999 film, The Limey, which featured Peter Fonda and Terence Stamp.
 
In addition to its unique aesthetic and more esoteric qualities the house is brimming with appointments, from a spacious kitchen with double ovened range, enormous island and beech cabinetry, to skylights and a luxurious master suite with it's own private sitting area, and a walk-in closet that is sure to win over the heart of anyone with a penchant for couture.
 
Astral House provides much to those who relish luxurious serenity, while also serving those who wish to lavishly entertain. A selection of terraces, expansive living areas, a stunning swimming pool that dramatically reaches out towards the skyline, and an eden-like garden of succulents together comprise a classic Hollywood party setting. One would hope that the party runs late because visitors are sure to be delighted by the celestial celebration brought on by nightfall, for this house, is not only named for the stars, but truly shines brightest when set amongst them.