The property owners had a clear brief for the creative team, which was to create a barn-style house that reflected their commitment to sustainable farming. They wanted a home to draw upon the natural serenity of the land, and to incorporate a sense of western Petaluma, where farming and ranching is still very much a part of the local’s lives.
A crumpling old shed made way for the contemporary barn-style dwelling, which takes advantage of the coastal mountain range views and complements the undulating landscape. The building, clad in re-sawn cedar and painted white, creates a dramatic contrast with it’s rural setting. But it’s the structure’s gabled roof and overall form that ties it back into the purpose of the land and the culture of it’s location.
Set into the more opaque north side, the entry provides shelter tucked under the loft above and frames a view through the house to the meadow beyond. The light-filled living area opens up to the long view south and gathers the bedrooms and kitchen to either side. The kitchen has slide away windows that open directly to the garden – Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects.
The interiors, designed by California-based Erin Martin Design, are sophisticated, clean and make the most of the uninterrupted views beyond. A palette of white, greys, and natural materials adds a sense of simplicity and clam to the spaces.
The overall feel of the architecture and interiors is carried out into the landscape design. Lutsko Associates were responsible for creating the inviting outdoor dining area and a swimming pool, which sits directly opposite the homestead. A neat, rectangular pool house, featuring a flat, angled roof houses an outdoor kitchen and all the amenities required to spend the day poolside.
This project delicately marries the contemporary style and needs of modern day life, with the history and tradition of old-school farming practices. The success of the project highlights that Turnbull Griffin Haesloop are driven by the need’s of their clients and carefully consider the site’s natural environment when designing.
See more at: Turnbull Griffin Haesloop
Photography: David Wakely
