Adjacent to an abandoned quarry, this 3,080 sf single-family residence takes advantage of a steep hillside property with restricting zoning code in the Napa Valley. The site-specific design is conceived as three cascading roofs set in the landscape, each rotated at an angle optimized for views of Mt. Tamalpais and Marin.
A breezeway living area bridges two solid masonry volumes designed for work and rest. The volumes consist of Earth Masonry Units (EMU), a low-carbon alternative to conventional CMU by replacing more than 50% of standard cement content with earth and recycled rocks.
A creative block pattern emerged from the structural necessity of connecting the double wythe. Thermal mass of the block helps to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature in the summer, while radiant-heated floor delivers warmth in wintertime.
Strategically placed windows puncture the masonry volumes to frame the landscape while maintaining privacy. Daylighting is incorporated and natural cross ventilation encouraged via a band of operable clerestory windows. Large sliding doors and decks promotes indoor / outdoor living on an otherwise challenging site.
Design / Build in partnership with WATERSHED MATERIALS
Engineer: Kevin Donahue and Greg Rulifson, KEVIN DONAHUE STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Landscape: Cynthia Wright