Natural and Modern Combination Vetter House by James Bourret Architecture
The structure located great elements site with expansive views and exposure of a ridge top site, the quiet, contemplative shade of a redwood forest, the urbanity of a modern city residence, and the quiet of a wilderness. The design was developed from the idea that these contrasts would accentuate the drama of the magnificent site.
The sweeping curves pull the eye back to the house and toward the entry. Passing alongside the house to the entry the visitor takes in the forms of the house in a linear progression. The front door is at a quiet point in this progression, which heightens the surprise of what is to come. The fluted glass of the door veils the view, but when opened, the full grandeur beyond is revealed. It is not, however, what one expects. Instead of a drop-dead view up Mt. Tamalpais, the view drops away below, over the steps and granite slab fountain and into the canyon below. The fountain, sculpted by Welton Rotz, is the grounding element of the house, extending up from the earth and drawing water as if from a spring.
The granite slab forms the starting point for the architecture: the thick plaster walls repeat at intervals down the length of the house like the pylons of a bridge, anchoring the curved walls and overlapping planes of the house. The interplay of these planes leads one further into the house. To the East the kitchen, living room and dining room share the volume of the original octagon of the former house, now opened up to the views. To the West are the private areas of the house, with bedrooms oriented to the canyon, and the family room looking onto the pool and outdoor living areas.
The kitchen forms the hub of life in the house and opens fully to the living and dining rooms. The modern design and contemporary finishes relate to design elements throughout the house, with natural maple cabinets and floors balancing the cool of the green stone and the stainless steel appliances. The cable lighting system, designed by the architect, provides sparkle and color without cluttering the high volume of the room.
Via : Digsdigs
Architect : James Bourret Architecture
