The Experimental Ranch House, designed by Cliff May as his personal residence, is situated in the Sullivan Canyon area of Los Angeles. The house was completed in 1952 and is thought to be a unique example of the evolution of Ranch House design.

The focus of the 2360 square foot structure is a great room that contains the living area and kitchen. The room has a ridge large skylight that provides a view of the tree canopies above, and floor to ceiling windows at the North end of the space.

The goal of the project was to re-establish an open floor plan within the living space while preserving the integrity of May’s original beams and exposed rafters, a focal point of the house. To meet current fire code, the existing roof was replaced with a metal tile roof modeled after the wood shake that May originally used. The interior space was finished with custom walnut cabinetry and terrazzo floors throughout. Solid walnut counter tops, a stainless steel tile back splash, and custom cabinetry give the kitchen a sleek feel and integrate it within the living area.