MALIBU COOL: THE ARCHITECTURE OF DOUGLAS W. BURDGE -- If anyone could be called "The King of Coastal Cool," it would very well be architect Douglas W. Burdge, AIA. Not only is he a resident of that dreamlike seaside city of Malibu, California, but he has the distinction of having designed and built more than 100 homes in Malibu alone -- a feat unmatched by anyone else. So entrenched is Burdge and his architecture in the lifestyles, mindsets and the mystique of Malibu, it is hard to imagine the present-day city without his touch. And the best part is that Burdge is a man whose vision encompasses a variety of architectural styles -- from ultra contemporary to Spanish Mediterranean to rustic and Cape Cod-like among his repertoire -- and thus avoiding any type of "cookie cutter" approach to his homes, instead gearing each one to its setting and client's needs. “I genuinely understand Malibu and resort living and am deeply committed to designing unique homes that reflect the very best attributes of the coastal experience,” says Burdge. “Malibu is about the great outdoors and the beauty of its unpretentious rustic nature, combined with distinctive yet comfortable contemporary architecture. It has become the most desirable oceanside California community in which to live, whether for first or second home destinations." The 14-person team at Burdge & Associates Architects includes architects, draftspersons, designers and project managers working from their headquarters on the famed and romantic Pacific Coast Highway just south of the iconic Malibu Pier. Burdge has recently put his stamp on a new line of rustic-modern homes that truly reflect the unique flavor of Malibu, which he calls “Rustern.” The name is trademarked - and not only is Burdge producing original country/contemporary homes that truly thrive in Malibu, but he is also producing a line of Rustern furniture, from dining tables to cabinets to pedestal sinks. Rustern products feature the raw, highly coveted recycled barn wood that works so well in coastal environments, with a decidedly modern twist. In addition to designing many seaside homes, Burdge recently completed a magnificent new structure for the venerable Bel-Air Bay Club. He transformed the aging beachside landmark into a new fresh, decidedly upscale elegant Spanish-inspired piece of architecture for the enjoyment of the club residents. Burdge is also designing the new and highly anticipated Trancas Country Market in Trancas Canyon on the west side of Malibu at Pacific Coast Highway and Broadbeach Road. According to Burdge, “Trancas Country Market will be the ultimate reflection of the Malibu community, showcasing our special mom 'n pop retail destinations, an open air market environment, cafes, charming farm-to-table restaurants, one of our local favorite garden nurseries, with a children’s play area and petting zoo. The structures will reflect the rustic-historic setting that warmly reflects the timeless country vision of Malibu. It is high time that we had a new, contextual shopping and entertainment destination on the western edge of Malibu.” The project shown here on Studio of Style -- located on the prestigious Birdview Avenue on Point Dume -- is a perfect example of how Burdge integrates the indoors and out, and reflects his collaboration with interior designer Tim Clarke and renowned clothing designer James Perse who provided the casual-yet-chic furnishings.
Photos courtesy Burdge & Associates
