A project which respects the site to the highest level and creates a sense of place and serenity. A modern response weaved into the natural landscape of native oaks and ancient sandstone boulders.

A classic modernist cabin from the 1950’s was transformed into a soulful retreat for an Interior Designer and her family. The original home, designed by famed Santa Barbara architect Lutah Maria Riggs, was a 2-bedroom, 1 bath home that was expanded and remodeled from foundation to roof. The result is a 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath main residence and 2-bedroom, 1 bath guest house each equipped with relaxing and inviting living spaces for the Owners and their guests to enjoy. A long hallway in the main residence links both sides of the home, from remodeled kitchen and living spaces to a new voluminous master suite addition. Honey House reflects the artistic and Zen qualities of the area’s past—a place once inhabited by a collective of bohemian poets, writers, and artists—by maintaining original elements and reusing stone found onsite. Preserving its local heritage, the home also shares the same quarry stone as the nearby 1956-built Buddhist complex, also designed by Riggs.The retreat-like dwelling features expertly detailed, well appointed interiors, including bright rooms with birch-veneered ceilings, custom cabinetry and woodwork, and hand-selected furniture.

The goals of the homeowner were simple...create a connection to the site and views, and create a place to relax, vacate and entertain. The juxtaposition of the modern “box” addition to the simple gabled roof structure solved a request to have more volume and a more expressive indoor/outdoor feel for the home. All rooms of the main house were oriented to enjoy ocean views while the guest house enjoys views of the ocean and the mountains behind it. 

The Architect team worked with the Client to create stepped pathways, outdoor dining enclaves and play areas within a central garden courtyard that connects the home to a new pool and guest house. The guest home addition includes expansive decks that connect to the pool area and increase the livability of the home and property. Instead of adding more living space to the main house, the guest house serves as additional living space and bedrooms for their use.

The site work, swimming pool and new landscaping were completed in a delicate balancing act with careful respect to the existing vegetation, rock formations and oak trees that predominate the site. The landscape, hardscape, site walls, pool and existing natural elements join together with the fully furnished home to create a comprehensive design experience.