22-003 Stone's Throw
A couple with a twenty-year history living in the Santa Lucia Preserve purchased an ecologically diverse lot, looking to downsize and modernize from their current Hacienda-style dwelling down the road. In search of a new single-story home, our team set out to design an understated, modern, warm residence prioritizing space for visiting children and grandchildren. The home responds thoughtfully to the site – a low slung, meandering design blends into the grassy landscape, framing oak and hillside views.
Sensitive Siting
Hills to the east and west nestle the property in a protected valley. Upon analyzing the site’s restrictions, our team requested that the buildable “homeland” boundaries be adjusted from the rich forest down to the flat, sunny meadow below, aiming to refrain from disturbing any trees or an ecologically sensitive area. The structure’s low profile, flat roofs, and natural materials of light brick and wood blend into the native grasses and preserve views of the forested hill from the street.
Analyzing Carbon and Energy
Stone’s Throw energy use targets net zero and is all electric, aided by advanced modeling to optimize the home’s thermal performance. With fire resiliency top of mind, non-combustible exterior cladding and defensible space around the home provides peace of mind.
A layered, delicate material palette is taking shape. The limestone feels warm but not yellow, with subtle walnut and violet undertones that strike a fresh and contemporary tone.
A consistent walnut hue - “chocolate milk” - appears in the wood floors, casework, and wall paneling, bringing depth and richness. In the guest baths, smaller limestone “baguette” tiles echo the exterior brick at a more intimate, interior scale. Mid-dark bronze hardware adds contrast and weight, while the brick stays within that same warm, chocolate-toned palette.
The result is a material language that's warm without feeling heavy. A full scale on site tests both the functionality and appearance of each material.
