Rini Kundu Interiors LLC

Describe the featured project.

A generous 15,000-square-foot corner double-lot offers an expansive sense of balance and openness rarely found in Manhattan Beach. Its modern, minimalist interior is framed by wide hallways, soaring ceilings and a palette of refined neutrals that lend the home a serene, gallery-like quality. Full-height glass walls blur the transition between inside and out, where landscaped terraces and outdoor rooms echo the home’s architectural clarity. Throughout, thoughtful integration of smart systems, curated materials and resort-style amenities transforms daily life into something seamless and restorative—more retreat than residence.  

What small, impactful details often get overlooked?

The choice of artwork and how it’s displayed allows the homeowner to make bold statements and makes a tremendous impact on the look and feel of a home—something I encourage clients to think about from the start of a project.

Do you believe architecture should blend in or stand out?

The most compelling architecture does both—it blends in and stands out, always with intention. Great homes respect their context while contributing something unique, whether through quiet harmony or striking contrast. This home takes the latter approach, creating a bold presence that cleverly frames and amplifies the natural landscape around it.

How do you guide clients who aren’t sure what they want?

3D visualization is a great tool to guide clients in the decision-making process, allowing multiple design options to be explored and refined before committing to any particular direction. Seeing is believing.

When meeting a new client, what key questions do you ask them?

It’s crucial to understand how the client and their family like to live, for example, how they feel about outdoor living and entertaining. Balancing the needs of a family with sophisticated design choices that enhance their enjoyment of the home is a subtle art.

How do you balance aesthetics with functionality in landscapes?

When designing an outdoor space that’s both attractive and functional, it’s important to consider the site conditions, user needs and overall design goals. Although they may seem at odds, artificial elements such as turf and natural garden features can work together to create beautiful, sustainable landscapes.

Photographed by Lauren Taylor