Located on a hillside in a quiet established neighborhood, this previously undeveloped steeply sloping site provides an amazing panoramic view across the valley.  It was equally important to design the massing of the proposed house thoughtfully to reduce the visual impact it could create for houses across the valley looking back at it.   Embracing and engaging the exterior for both views and exterior living gave the layout of this design great depth and opportunity.

A multitude of requirements were placed upon this new residential project as a result of COVID-19.  Connections between interior and exterior spaces, challenging due to the slope, are crucial to create since the project location enjoys the option of exterior entertainment and living for most of the year.  The site is accessed at the bottom of the hillside informing the design of the house to not be oppressive or looming over passersby.  Incorporating planting both around and within the house grounds provided a strong intent of informing the house layout with nature.

A major design decision to lower the house into the hillside by using perimeter retaining walls provides both practical and symbolic meaning for its integration with the hillside and nature.  Coming up the driveway to the main entry, the viewer is greeted by a clean volume with a roof soaring in contrast to the falling hillside. Stepping over the threshold into the entry hall, the viewer engages with a waterfall of greenery showcased by a large window.  The progression from the entry hall to a connecting bridge has the contrasting opportunity to see nature up close on one side of the bridge while the opposite overlooks the valley view.  Conversely, exiting the house by way of the bridge the viewer is treated to a last moment of restfulness on the gallery wall in the entry.

Climbing a half flight of stair and passing by the wine display case provides arrival to the primary living space with a large family, dining and kitchen area connected directly to the exterior living area over the garage.  This exterior space features an outdoor kitchen, dining area, lounge area with fire feature, spa and swimming pool with infinity edges, an outdoor shower, daybed, pool bathroom, and storage.  The house interior on this main level also incorporates a powder room, office, bedroom with en-suite, and a private side yard for the office and bedroom.

Additional features of the house design include a reading area referred to as the “bird nest” (due to the elevated perspective and restful view across the valley), a large 2^nd level sitting area for all house occupants to enjoy the view with deck access, a prime bedroom suite featuring a large corner glass-wall for daylight and connectivity to the valley beyond, two additional bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, and a connecting stair to the final level of the house above.  This level features a final 5^th bedroom with en-suite bathroom, laundry room and covered connection with Zen Garden and putting green on either side of the walkway.  The occupant will then arrive at an exercise room with sauna, a snack kitchen, bathroom, and media room with kid’s mezzanine.

The basement level of the house has a three-car garage with high ceiling height for adding car lifts, a mudroom, a substantial storage area, mechanical room, and wine cellar.  An elevator is also incorporated into the plan providing communication between three levels of the house.

This dynamic and unique house engages views while being restful, playful, efficient, renewing, and inspiring for all inhabitants that it serves.  It creates a place of desire and fulfillment while being with nature and fitting into the fabric of the neighborhood.