Laguna Niguel 1965 Home By George Bissell

Written by Angela Serratore, New York Times

A midcentury-modern house with four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, on a 0.2-acre lot

This 1965 house was designed by George Bissell, a prolific architect known for his work in Orange County in the 1960s and 1970s. Horizon House, his beloved circular dwelling, is a block away, and many of his commercial projects are within a 20-minute drive.

George Bissell 1965 house

Indoors: A brick privacy wall painted black runs along the front of the property, sheltering it from the street. A dusty-pink door in the wall opens into a courtyard with a swimming pool.

The entry to the house is through a floor-to-ceiling wall of glass that offers a view of the courtyard from the open living area. This space is anchored by a dark brick fireplace and has an accent wall painted dark blue. There is room for a dining table between the sitting area and the kitchen, which has custom wood cabinetry, quartz counters, Miele and Gaggenau appliances, a concealed coffee bar and a pantry. A powder room is off this space.

The primary suite occupies its own wing, off a hallway extending from the center of the house. The bedroom has high ceilings and custom-designed storage; the bathroom has a free-standing soaking tub and a curbless shower with a glass wall.

The other three bedrooms are on the opposite side of the house. The smallest is currently used as a home office; the largest has a wall of glass offering a view of a sand garden. They share a full bathroom with a walk-in shower.

Outdoor space: The swimming pool has a waterfall-style element, and the high walls surrounding it give the courtyard a sense of privacy. A spacious patio and the sand garden are in the backyard. The attached garage holds two cars.