Project overview

This resilient home on a family heritage parcel will be built for the benefit of multiple generations to come. We designed this plan to facilitate a two-part strategy: the clients will dwell in an accessible single-story portion, allowing their family to inhabit additional spaces on the lower floor.

Design criteria

Concept

Expansive eastern, southern and western exposures called for a strategic approach to glazing so that light, views, and passive solar heating are captured, while the harsh summer sun is shielded through operable shading. Given that this is a wildland-urban interface, fire resilience both in and around the home are critical considerations.

Site

The clients have tended this land for decades, fostering native plants, retaining water features, and understanding its seasonality thoroughly. The siting of the building is easily directed by excellent near canyon and distant mountain views, and a natural terracing down to the south.

Credits