For those of you not in the know, 'When A Stranger Calls' is a horror/thriller movie directed by Simon West, back in 2006. The story unfolds in an impressive house known as the Mandrakis Residence in the movie where the protagonist, Jill, arrives to babysit. This contemporary masterpiece of a house is luxury through and through, with a suspended gallery over the living room, internal aviary and ponds, and a plethora of state of the art home gadgetry. But you might be surprised to know that it was not a real home at all; the exterior was a set in Franklin Canyon Park, Beverly Hills (see pic below), and all of the interiors were shot entirely in studios. The dream home turned nightmare was decorated by the talented Traci Kirshbaum, who is also credited on movies such as 'Prom Night', 'The Dukes of Hazzard' and 'Employee of the Month'.
Image via Adrien
Even if you weren't impressed by the movie, you are bound to be impressed by the stunning lakeside house in which the scene is set.
Jill arrives to babysit, entering via raised decking with luxury barbeque
The stunning riverside views from the decked entrance set a secluded scene for the intense movie plot
The contemporary entrance to the Mandrakis Residence is modest in its nature rich surroundings
The dreamlike zen aviary at the centre of the house is complete with exotic greenery, extensive fishponds and soothing water features
The suspended platform over the living space takes in the awesome lakeside views, and stores the home library for when night falls over the panorama
Classic furniture contrasts against the fresh backdrop
The house tour that took place in the movie was our favourite part!
This movie house has even inspired several models in the popular Sims games series, each echoing the waterside modern structure with rich hardwood floors, classic furniture pieces and sophisticated elegance. In this piece rendered out by user Rosalie we even see a digitized version of the idyllic waterside, and the beautiful nature packed courtyard
