a mcm home redesigned to embrace indoor-outdoor living

Happy Spring! In this April issue, we have a wonderful opportunity to show our readers a project in progress which embodies the full vision of indoor-outdoor living. bL’s project architect Jackie Detamore remembers her first impression of this unique property: perched on top of a hill in a wooded setting that affords views of lush slopes with mature oak trees on all sides. The underlying organization of the home was clear. The central block containing the living room acts like an anchor with two wings (one for common areas and the other for bedrooms.) The two wings embrace a sunlit patio with a large pool.

Before: central block (higher roofline) containing the living room; the entry was accessed from the pool patio.

Before: no front door could be seen from the driveway; underused deck to be removed to make way for a new front entry.

After: new front entry is located prominently next to the carport.

a house with good bones

According to Jackie, this is a mid-century house at its core, just somewhat muddied by previous additions. “Our job is to give the plan more clarity and to bring out its latent potential.” The primary layout challenge was the approach to the house. There was no visible front door, so visitors had to walk around the right side of the carport and pass through a gate leading to the pool before finding the entry to the house. No wonder our client (a family of four) complained about confused visitors wandering around the property.

Main floor plan

the entry sequence

Our primary strategy in creating a proper entry was to relocate the kitchen in order to make use of its prominent and visible location. Located next to the carport, the new recessed entry frames a wide glass pivot door. Its approach is articulated with concrete steps and planter boxes. Once inside, a cozy entry foyer, clad in white oak, provides a moment of pause before entering an airy living and dining space with sweeping ceilings. The dining area faces the sunny patio; large glass sliders run along one wall and continue into the kitchen, providing a fluid indoor-outdoor connection.

The great room with an open-corner fireplace: custom cabinetry and tiles form a simple material palette that recurs throughout the house.

Kitchen

Pool patio: generous trellis shelters an outdoor kitchen and dining area; gas fire pit warms up a sitting area; primary bedroom suite on the right end has direct access to the pool.

california living

Stephen Shoup, bL’s principal, adds that this project represents an evolution of our firm’s engagement with California living. It is especially valued since we have worked with the same client on their previous home that is still garnering many Likes on social media. (See Paseo Way Residence) There are elements in this project (like the window seat at the primary bedroom) that show the legacy of a conversation we have with a repeat client. Needless to say, we are extremely grateful for their confidence in building Lab and we cannot believe our good fortune of having two fantastic experiences.