Writer's Mountain Retreat

Stay in an architectural sanctuary just five miles from Idyllwild center, yet still with that remote and free feel. An open-plan loft-style interior awaits, complete with fireplace and built-ins to perfectly capture the surrounding mountain and pond views with a deck that extends out into the incredible nature. There are vaulted wooden ceilings that highlight the warm, welcoming kitchen. Solar panels make this stay eco-friendly well.

This unique home was designed and built by the mid-century master architect Robert Skinner as his personal retreat in 1981. Built-in a park-like setting on more than 7 private acres in the San Jacinto mountains and adjacent to the San Bernadino National Forest, the home is less than an hour from Palm Springs and just two hours from either Los Angeles or San Diego, making for easy access.

Situated on the last of a rare chain of small spring-fed mountain lakes ten minutes from Idyllwild, the setting exudes peace and serenity on a pond teeming with local wildlife. (Please note that the pond depth is seasonal, fluctuating often with the wild California weather!).

This extraordinary home is the perfect getaway for a writer, artist, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone who loves the outdoors! Designed to be sustainable, the 2,800 square foot home runs entirely on solar power and draws water from its two dedicated private wells. So, this is a stay you can feel great about from an environmentally friendly aspect.

The kitchen has all new appliances and the entire house has been professionally decorated with period-appropriate and incredibly unique and lovely furnishings.

The large living room houses another fireplace, flat-screen TV, and a beautiful collection of mid-century and modern furniture and enjoys breathtaking views of the seasonal pond and surrounding mountain-scape.

With an effect that blurs the distinction between where the indoor space ends and the outdoors begin, ten-foot-high glass windows and doors run the entire length of the home and overlook the pond and the mountains beyond. The two floors are seamlessly integrated in a loft-like design.

Skylights in both upstairs bedrooms let in the sun and the moon, providing much natural light. A fantastic den/study has a deep, wrap-around drafting desk perfect for writing or making art. The den/study has a custom floating lighting system that turns work from a chore to a delight.

The master bedroom has a new large flat-screen TV, DVD player, queen-sized bed, built-in closet, a wood fireplace, and its own private deck. The master bath has ample closet space, full-length mirrors, a shower, and a gorgeous soaking tub under the skylight. The second upstairs bedroom has twin beds, which can be combined to make a king-sized bed and is completely private.

In addition to the two bedrooms upstairs, there is a family suite of two bedrooms and a full bath on the first floor, making two connected but distinct sleeping areas for privacy -- perfect for two couples to share the house, or for children to have their own space.

Many built-ins designed by the architect allow maximum storage while letting the amazing variety of wood details fill the house with color and elegance.

The house is a study in the use of warm wood tones: The floors are white oak, the walls are yellow cedar, the ceilings are heart-redwood and the built-in furniture is teak.