ŌNIN

From designer Jae Omar and architect Eran Gispan... Designed and constructed with an appreciation for the past, a mindset in the present, and a vision for the future, ŌNIN represents the opportunity to occupy a truly exceptional work of art while experiencing the finest in luxury living. Located within the secluded enclave of Royal Oaks in the exclusive Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles, this Japanese-inspired modern farmhouse plays on ancient philosophies, inspired design, and contemporary thinking to create a one-of-a-kind property.

Beginning on the exterior of the newly constructed home, a traditional Japanese wood-burning process called ‘shou-sugi-ban’ has been implemented to create the beautiful charcoal-toned wooden facade alongside hand-applied plaster work for added depth and richness. Just past a serene water feature and 12-foot entry door, a double-height foyer features impressive bookmatched slabs of intricately selected marble, aptly referenced as the “Butterfly Pavilion.”

Continuing throughout the eight-bedroom and nine-bathroom home, Japanese-inspired design elements are woven throughout, both frankly and subtly referenced around every corner. Solid wide-plank oak flooring spans the home while narrow handcrafted oak screening is stretched across the heightened ceilings and walls, consequently camouflaging doorways, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. Dual powder rooms take on individualistic design personalities to strike thought, with one highlighted by a 4,500-pound boulder, repurposed as a statement vanity.

Channeling the modern times, the ground level features an expansive open layout with numerous living and dining areas, including a first-class Molteni ‘Ratio’ kitchen from Vincent Van Duysen, highlighted by natural smoked elm cabinetry and elegant stone surfaces with an alluring leathered finish. Designer lighting from Bocci, Matthew McCormick, RBW, and Nemo, alongside fixtures from Graff, Gessi, and Cocoon, tell a story of consistent authenticity with nods back to the underlying Japanese inspiration.

Dramatic walls of glass seamlessly blend the indoors with the outdoors, opening to a 65-foot infinity pool that captivates the senses with an exquisite marble backdrop offset by a tranquil waterfall. Wood decking extends over the outdoor living and dining areas which feature a clustered boulder fireplace — all while taking in the lush grounds filled with expansive green landscaping, creating a truly private oasis. For added functionality, the 1.3-acre property includes a tennis court, bocce ball court, and basketball court, alongside a one-bedroom and one-bathroom guest house, mimicking the stylized nature of the main home.

Upstairs, a remarkable primary suite surpasses even the highest level of inspired design one would anticipate. “The soaring ceilings and walls are clad with white oak planking, concealing the door to one of the two voluminous closets, creating a seamless aesthetic. From one of the two primary bathrooms is a private outdoor sanctuary, complete with fire and water features, forging a perfect elemental balance,” said principal designer Jae Omar. “At the heart of the suite, a visually arresting open-air atrium takes center stage, showcasing an authentic bonsai tree surrounded by shou-sugi-ban-treated wood.”

Adding to the luxe abode, a spacious game room, functional gym, and resort-style spa, complete with steam room, sauna, walk-in whirlpool spa, and cold plunge pool, are accompanied by a state-of-the-art theatre, equipped for 15+ persons and outfitted with a marble and live-edge white oak bar. Furthermore, dual three-car garages and an extended driveway offer ample space for a collection of automobiles.

Serving as the foundation of inspiration for the home, the Ōnin Era of Japan, which occurred during the mid-1400s, represented a time of strife, turbulence, and hardship, leaving those involved at a juncture to either separate and wither, or come together and blossom. Ultimately, affinity won out, sparking a national evolution marked by a flourish of artistic expression. “The conclusion of such a somber era within Japan allowed for great forms of expression to spring forth, including some of the most identifiable pieces of Japanese art, teachings, poetry, and architecture,” noted Jae Omar, the principal designer behind the property. “ŌNIN seamlessly fuses the spirit of this ancient Japanese era with the design aspects and contemporary architecture of today’s modern farmhouse.”