Measuring in at 4,900 sq. ft., there’s lots to love about this modern house idea beyond its sprawling size. Designed by Robert M. Gurney Architect, this contemporary style home makes a striking statement among its natural surroundings, sited on a steep slope draped in lush, leafy trees. The imposing structure is comprised of a series of boxes in varying scales and finished in materials including wood, glass and stone. Massive windows, walkouts and terraces combine nature and architecture. Inside, open volumes and glass bridges running overhead let light flow freely between floors, enhancing the home’s awesome sense of space.
We love the contrast of materials, the transparency versus solidity, vertical playing against horizontal, protruding versus pushed in. This house is an artful lesson in opposites, and an example of how they really do attract.
The lean, vertical volume wrapped in wood is an instant focal point, tied into its surroundings yet standing out on its own merits, luring you in for a closer look.
Interiors are contemporary and earthy, all at once. Wood and stone finishings, modern furnishings and fixtures, and natural lighting and views complete the big picture that defines this home. The open concept layout is ideal for family socializing, entertaining, or simple enjoying unobstructed views from every space, as you cook, dine and live.
Past the living room, there are two lights at the end of this tunnel – a walkout to the hillside, and a glass bridge overhead that lets light flow free.
Apart from just looking at nature, the huge bank of glass allows residents to step out into it!
The wood floor, island and cabinetry in the kitchen warm up the cool stainless steel backsplash and appliances.
Within the tall, timber volume, a glass face lets the light and views enter, illuminating a folded wood and steel staircase.
Unusual for a stairwell, this open, airy space lures you to linger a while – climb the steps slowly as you take in the trees and blue sky.
Look up to find the glass catwalks cutting across the void overhead – a sleek shortcut from one upper-level living area to another.
But the voids in this home aren’t limited to the vertical realm. We love this curious cut-out in the wall, giving the top-level den a views of the living area below.
Warm and intimate, this lounging area is centered around a wood-clad fireplace – an earthy element that echoes the trees visible through the floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall glass. Just on the other side, a terrace offers a private piece of nature and a quiet moment to yourself.
The bathroom is meant to soothe and spoil.
The minimalist white palette is punctuated by a wood primping and prepping station and wood vanity. Above a pair of vessel sinks, mirrored medicine cabinet reflect the light and views from the large window on the opposite wall.
Standing before the glass wall, a sculptural bathtub echoes the organic shape of the vessel sinks on a much more substantial scale. The bathrooms position on the upper floor allowed the architects to use a glass wall without compromising on privacy.
A beacon of light, glowing in the night.
Three levels take shape in long, horizontal volumes, each offering its own experience of nature – the base level with a lower walkout sunken down among the lush landscaping; the middle level with a walkout to the high end of the hillside and a deck hanging over the lower level; and the top tier, lined in glass from end to end, and a private terrace level with the treetops.
Robert M. Gurney Architect
via Freshome
