A Creative Sanctuary in Sherman Oaks Designed by Mendy Cheng
Tucked away on a quiet street in one of Sherman Oaks’ most desirable neighborhoods, this contemporary Mediterranean estate feels less like a house and more like a thoughtfully composed retreat.
Fully updated and reimagined by Architectural Digest Top 100 interior designer Mandy Cheng, the home reflects a rare balance of sophistication, warmth, and deeply personal storytelling.
The home belongs to David Biral, one half of the two-time Grammy-nominated production duo Take a Daytrip, and filmmaker Elena De Santiago. After purchasing the property, the couple quickly turned to Cheng, whose past Architectural Digest features had long inspired them.
They knew what they wanted every space to feel like, even if some early ideas (like a rock-climbing wall) ultimately gave way to a more refined vision. The result is a cozy yet elevated sanctuary that merges Biral’s rustic Vermont roots with De Santiago’s vibrant Mexican heritage.
Behind the double front doors, a soaring, double-height foyer immediately sets the tone. Light pours in, highlighting the home’s generous proportions and inviting flow.
To one side lies one of the residence’s most distinctive spaces: a formal living room re-envisioned as a library.
Designed as a peaceful escape, the room features custom-built shelving and intimate reading nooks, an intentional nod to the homeowners’ shared love of literature and quiet creativity.
At the heart of the home is an open-concept main living area designed for connection and entertaining. A family room anchored by a sleek fireplace and custom built-ins flows effortlessly into a chef’s kitchen outfitted with top-of-the-line Viking appliances.
Formal and informal dining areas sit nearby, wrapped in warm, welcoming tones. Terra cotta hues in the dining room evoke memories of Mexico City, adding a nostalgic layer to everyday meals and gatherings.
The formal dining room is painted in a rich hue picked from Mendy Cheng’s office. The rug is from Lemieux Et Cie, topped with a McMillin dining table and SoHo Home chairs.
Upstairs, the private quarters continue the home’s narrative of comfort and luxury. Two primary suites offer flexibility and indulgence, with the larger serving as a true retreat.
It features its own fireplace, a private balcony, a spacious walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom outfitted with a soaking tub, rainfall shower, double vanity, and gleaming marble finishes.
Two additional generously sized bedrooms with custom closets round out the upper level, providing ample space for family, guests, or creative pursuits.
Floor-to-ceiling pocketing glass doors dissolve the boundary between indoors and out, opening onto a nearly 8,000-square-foot backyard.
Lush landscaping, curated by Manscapers, transforms the outdoor space into a private oasis complete with tropical plants and colorful accents, including a hammock that channels the spirit of De Santiago’s hometown.
The house is listed for $3,350,000 with Hovik Pakhanyan of The Agency.