BIG SUR RESIDENCE
For nearly fifty years this home has gained significant notoriety because of its unique Architecture and prominent location. Exposure to this harsh environment had taken its toll on the house and it was time to renovate the property to its prior glory. The building program called for an expansion of living space and replacement of the properties infrastructure.
The client wanted to bring forward the stature of the home incorporating modern aspects. The original architectural vernacular was in character for this area with use of natural materials and unique architectural forms. Much of the existing structure had to be demolished which created the opportunity to rearrange the existing plan and add new space.
The north/south orientation up and down the coast underscores the importance these views played in the original design. The new work embraces that concept with floor to ceiling glass and a palate of interior and exterior materials that allows the views to take center stage. The main house is the gem of this composition and as such its use of wood, glass and stone emphasize this structures unique character. The other two structures were designed using simple forms and building materials in order to be noncompeting and support the iconic nature of the original house.
The importance of the work done here was driven because this is an outwardly focused home capturing the dramatic beauty of the coast and Pacific Ocean. All design choices from the use of materials to the interiors where made to that end. It is evident that this renovated project has maintained and enhanced the spirit of the original home.