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For a sophisticated couple with refined tastes, this ocean side, wooded hill retreat wanted to be relaxed and understated yet a place for rest and relaxation, spiritual renewal and refreshment as well.

 

The site provides a dramatic, awe-inspiring southern view of the Pacific Ocean with Golden Gate National Recreation Area and San Francisco beyond. Westward views are of the dramatic and ever changing Pacific Ocean. The northern views capture the Point Reyes National Seashore, and to the east one sees the beautiful hills of West Marin. Our goal was to site this home in such a way as to see these views, while masking out the surrounding neighbours’ homes. With the help of the bull-dozer’s giant scoop which lifted us up to the height of the second floor great room, we were able to site the building in the best possible location, angled to successfully capture the breath-taking sites while leaving the other homes below or out of the cone of vision.

 

Limited to just under 800 square feet, as required by local zoning, there was no room for excess. The small house mainly functions as a weekend refuge for the couple, but also welcomes the extended family for gatherings.Raised cathedral ceilings, large windows and several attached decks enhance the minimal square footage. A loft space was crafted over the bathroom ceiling for the grandchildren’s’ sleeping quarters. Zoning ordinance also required parking for eight cars, accommodated in the two-car garage at ground level and along the backside of the property. This forced all of the living space on the second floor, fortuitously giving every single space in this tiny house a view of great natural beauty.

Sensitivity to the surrounding homes in this Bolinas neighbourhood paid off when the neighbours came in support of our architectural design at the public design review hearing.

 

 

The project successfully achieved the requirements of the owners and to their delight turned out better than imagined. The spaces are well balanced with loads of natural light and celebrate the surrounding glory, while providing a private, secluded retreat.

Photos By: Tom Rider, www.tomrider.com