A dramatic remodeling of a nondescript 20th century '50s hillside home transforms a two-story structure into a three-story home for growing families. The residence has a contrasting but stunning landscape with the city of San Francisco, with the Sutrota to the west. The front and rear facades feature 20-foot-high, 30-inch-deep steel sunshades to deflect light while framing the cherished landscape while culling less desirable views. The anchor walls to the south and north are smoothed with hand plastering, creating visual and spiritual privacy with neighboring homes. Between these walls there is a crystal glass and steel exterior structure that provides homes with stunning views of downtown San Francisco to the east, as well as beautiful sunset views through the backyard canopy. The living roof provides ample insulation and rainwater purification, as well as an inviting natural break within the confines of the urban environment.
Sustainable design measures are applied throughout the home: high-performance roof insulation; thermally damaged windows and doors; Deep cantilevers provide passive solar control; Drought-tolerant, low-irrigation landscape. The building footprint is modest and narrow, allowing for cross-ventilation through operable windows and doors throughout the house.
The interior of the house is covered with a variety of woods that exude visual and tactile warmth. Bespoke built-in furniture further enhances the quality of intimacy within the home while maximizing functionality within a modest building footprint. The biophilic spirit is essential for homeowners and permeates every room in the home. 