Resort-based Bernal Heights Residence by SB Architects

Bernal Heights Residence by SB Architects

SB Architects presents Bernal Heights Residence as a new, free-standing home, while maintaining the site’s existing structure as a separate residential unit. Features one-story, one-bedroom home over a two-car garage built on single structure. The goal for this project was to seize the unique zoning opportunity to build a new contemporary yet sustainable home on this desirable, but never-developed, corner site in a dense San Francisco neighborhood.

Resort-based Interior Bernal Heights Residence by SB Architects

The basic envelope was shaped in large part by the neighborhood planning code, which dictated elements such as bay windows, notched side yards and inset entries to create movement and shadow along the streetscape. While the design is rooted in the local vernacular and code within this traditional San Francisco neighborhood, the interpretation is distinctly clean and modern.

Resort-based Living Room Bernal Heights Residence by SB Architects

The naturally sloping site inspired the idea of a focal stair core wrapped by private areas and topped by a dramatic skylight, bathing the interiors in natural light and forming a direct link between through the private spaces on the entry level and the upper-level public spaces. The corner location and internal organization of space created an exterior expression that broke free of horizontal restraints to create a blend of horizontal and vertical lines, punctuated by a strong cantilevered roof.

Modern Kitchen Bernal Heights Residence by SB Architects

Locating the main living spaces on the top floor afforded dramatic views of the San Francisco skyline and garnered abundant natural light, significantly decreasing electricity use. The house interior designed as a resort-based living experience with open, flowing spaces, clean, high-end finishes and rich woods.