Standing before the magnificent exterior of the Raja home, there is a sense as soon as you step through the giant maple door with its beveled glass and glue chip inserts, you will be amazed. You are not disappointed. The coffee-colored travertine, found in many areas of the home, is laid in a Versailles pattern; its chiseled edges create a rustic look. Hand-scraped walnut plank flooring (another element found throughout the residence) makes up the two remarkable staircases that curve along either side of the entry. The black with copper underlay of the balustrade’s wrought iron accentuates the grand effect and provides an aged appearance. Granite orbs, which delicately imitate the color of the iron are incorporated into the banister, making it unique.

Stepping through to the living room, the heavily textured, hand-troweled plaster of graham cracker glazed walls is the perfect accompaniment to the giant Cantera stone fireplace imported from Guadalajara. The Groin vault style ceiling is accentuated by variegated travertine tile set in a Boveda pattern. The space is resplendent with Italian provincial luxury furnishings.

When it comes to the architectural detailing found in this residence, no element is overlooked. The hallway leading to the kitchen boasts a dramatic barrel ceiling, hand-glazed in a dusky raw umber. A striking archway of cultured, stacked stone, in varying shades of slate, taupe and sun-faded terra cotta, frames the entrance and continues down the hall to the wine “cellar,” which can house 840 bottles. To the right of the archway, a 200-gallon fish tank is set into the wall so it may be enjoyed upon approach as well as from the wet bar on the opposing side. To the left, the wall is equally interesting with the soothing sound of trickling water emanating from the slate waterfall with distressed copper frame.

The kitchen makes its own bold statement with extensive alder cabinetry stained in an antique pecan and finished with a rich chocolate glaze. Granite imported from Turkey makes up the countertops and the lower level of the island, while the mocha travertine of the island’s upper level serves as a beautiful focal point. A barrel ceiling with brick façade adds an unmistakable Mediterranean feel to the room.

The master suite is expansive, containing a separate seating area and French doors that open onto a landing overlooking the indoor swimming pool. Though the space is quite large, it still remains cozy with its calming earth tones, luxurious furnishings and fireplace for chilly winter nights.

The master bathroom is a marvel of hand-chiseled travertine counters and onyx vessel bowls that sit atop the pecan cabinetry. The columns and base that surround the Aquatic Century two-person jetted bath are covered in travertine and accented with inset mini-mosaic listillos. Elements flawlessly incorporate to create a sheer lavishness comparable to settings found in world-renowned spas.

In addition to the 8,500 square feet of living space, the Raja’s indoor pool area adds another 2,500 square feet to the residence and is another space capable of rivaling a spa atmosphere. The center spillway and two giant granite bowls that empty into the side of the custom pool opposite the hot tub make the environment even more aesthetically enjoyable. A mural painted by local artist Cesar Lujan depicting a jungle scene adorns one section of wall space, wrapping around giant picture windows. A Greco-Roman element is felt by way of the massive Cantera stone pillars situated below the upper landing, next to the spiral staircase. Across the room, sits a beautiful fireplace above which three considerable niches work their way up the 30-foot wall. Because the room is enclosed, what would otherwise be an outdoor kitchen becomes even more versatile as it can be conveniently utilized (like the pool) year round - rain or shine.

The home offers five bedrooms plus a guest room that is self sufficient with its own kitchenette, sitting area and bathroom. There is an office, formal living and dining rooms, a music room complete with a baby grand piano, den, kitchen, breakfast nook, large pantry, wine “cellar,” swimming pool room and a six car garage.

There are so many elegant design elements in this home, it makes one wonder how it all comes together. The answer has much to do with hiring the right people. When the Rajas speak of builder Luis Medina of MRQ Construction, it is with genuine affection. “We asked around for referrals and all were positive,” says Angelica. “When you meet him, right away you sense his honesty. He’s hardworking and the quality of what he does is unbeatable.” Laiq cannot say enough about Luis either. “A big ‘thanks’ goes to Luis,” Laiq says. “He made this house very special for us.”

The Rajas worked with an interior designer, even as the plans were being drawn up for the home. Having contracted Lynda Power in their previous home, her involvement was a must. “When I couldn’t picture something,” Angelica says, “I could always rely on the benefit of Lynda’s experience. And she was always right.”

Creating a home is more than blueprints. It is more than bricks and cement. It is an investment of not just money, but of time. It is establishing precisely what you want and finding the right people to help you realize your dream. Only then can you know what it’s like to carve out a little piece of Utopia for yourself.