Matt’s place is something special. It’s nestled up a winding road about a mile above Topanga Canyon. You’ll pass sheer rocks and a tree lined valley with mountain streams as you approach. It feels like a refuge from LA.
The space itself has clean lines, cool furniture, and is perfectly proportioned. Not too big or small. It has a sun-bleached adobe vibe, (see pictures of Georgia O'Keeffe’s house) and is filled with thoughtful touches - a beautiful wooden door into the bathroom, a large, an open closet that somehow feels tucked away, a muted terra-cotta bathroom. Though the space is only one room + bathroom, the bed is nestled in a a recessed cubby that feels cozy and warm. The cheerful plants connect you to the outside, and the kitchen is big enough to handle any cooking you’d like to do. I stayed there 7 weeks and more or less cooked all the time.
Matt’s as friendly as the surrounding area of Topanga and is quick to help out should anything arise. In fact, he jumped my car one night when it died. He’s got a cool dog, too.
I couldn’t recommend this spot more. Be warned - there’s no TV and cell service is a little spotty, so you’ll need to FaceTime via wifi if you want to call out. But I personally like that sense of stillness. Living in Topanga is nice but it can feel a little isolated from LA. Again, a plus if you are so inclined. Go hiking at Tuna and Topanga Canyon if you stay.