This guest home is perched on a steep slope overlooking the beautiful Sonoma Valley in the heart of wine country. The client’s desire for a home that was harmonious with its mountainous surroundings was manifested by a design that appears as if it is virtually emerging from the hillside. In designing the home, Coates Design placed substantial emphasis on integration with the surrounding topography and seamlessly incorporating natural features as elements of the structure.

The back deck extrudes from 10-foot pilings and is elegantly accompanied by landscaped terraces featuring indigenous plantings. A cantilevered roof extends above the deck with custom lighting that illuminates the surroundings and the deck below.

Inside, an open spacious kitchen and living area occupy the central heart of the home. The master and guest bedroom are located on the south side of the structure where residents can enjoy awe-inspiring scenery from the comfort of their bed.

The home touches the ground gently leaving a light footprint on the natural environment. It is powered by 12 kW solar panels and passive solar strategies are also used in the implementation of vast windows on the south side of the home, maximizing the amount of natural light on the interior and providing a breathtaking 180° view of the valley. Rainwater collection tanks will be implemented to naturally irrigate the terrace gardens.

During construction of the primary dwelling the client will live in the guest house which is built from the heavy boulders among its surroundings. A stone walkway leads to the front door and residents enjoy the warmth of a fireplace also built of stone making this modern retreat as cozy as it is beautiful.

Coates Design Seattle Architects