Southampton Lair

Despite its condition, Godbold was impressed by the home’s exterior, particularly its dynamic roofline of two connected trapezoidal volumes angling upward and away from each other. The property’s layout had to remain unchanged because it dwells on sloped wetlands. However, Godbold did not let this hinder his creativity and designer’s eye. The first step in his action plan was freshening up the cedar-clad exterior, as it was run-down and drab. Black paint concealed the imperfections and gave the home a sexy, modern feel. An exterior staircase leading from the street to the front terrace gives off the illusion of floating lily pads, as at night time, they light up from below. He opted for large-picture windows to maximize views of the lush surroundings and complement the high ceilings.

Godbold drew inspiration from previous projects while renovating the property. From working on a subterranean-inspired workspace for a project in California, he grew fond of cement-bunker-type buildings and furnishings from Bond movies. He sealed the deal after reading Lair: Radical Homes and Hideouts of Movie Villains.

At 1,700 sq. ft, this home is the ideal bachelor pad. The living space features a Mayan-inspired ziggurat-like fireplace and angled planter, which honor the home’s striking geometric architecture. Sofas from a vintage Lara sectional by Roberto Pamio, Noti Massari, and Renato Toso further play into the theme of dynamic shapes. The TV room is situated behind the angled planter above the living room, offering more seating and gorgeous views from the picture windows. Wood slats on the skylights cast eye-catching shadows on the surrounding walls.

The inside of the home takes a softer approach in its color palette than the outside, creating a sense of calm through earth-toned stucco. Bad guys have to relax, too. This palette is also in the primary suite, occupying the top level of the taller volume. The bed sits atop a raised carpeted platform while being encircled by a linen curtain to create a floating effect and keep light out from the open bathroom. Godbold also describes the curtain as adding a softness to the room. The bathroom is lined with grey fiber-cement panels and possesses natural wood skylights, creating a moody yet serene atmosphere.

One of the two guest bedrooms features a stainless steel bed with a built-in desk at its foot. In fact, stainless steel is throughout the home, much like Goldfinger’s lair. The other room is down the corridor with large windows that face a terrace. Set on a sloped plot, the home has access to the garden from the front and back. The backyard hosts a minimalist fireplace atop a circular mosaic platform mimicking the nuclear symbol.