Butterfly House is situated on a grassy plateau in the hills of the Santa Monica Mountains. With panoramic views of the mountains to the north, east, and west as well as the ocean to the south, the remote site is approached via a steep, winding road; glimpses of the building and the scenic panorama slowly unfold until the semi-cloistered compound is revealed at the top.

Comprised in plan of two half circles hinged together at a single point, the two wings of the house are joined by a central gallery along the north-south axis connecting the main entrance to the pool and garden. The pool is slightly sunken into the ground and connects to a network of paths leading to garden enclaves carved into the hill. The configuration of the house and surrounding grounds simultaneously frames views of the site and protects from the pervasive winds.