GLEN ELLEN HOUSE
The house, originally built in the early 1980s, is located on approximately 11 acres in Glen Ellen, California. Since the house was purchased in 2012 as a second residence, the architect has completed two prior remodels before this final transformation. Once the owners determined they would be permanently relocating to the home in the early 2020’s, they engaged the architect again to design a new residence, replacing the existing structure. However, it became apparent to the owners that the truly best solution was to re-think the existing structure and modify it to meet their aesthetic and everyday needs of a permanent home.
Located in an area that has unfortunately become prone to wildfires, the first major change was to remove the tired wood siding and windows and replace it with non-combustable metal siding and aluminum windows. Dark colors were chosen to allow the structure to recede into the surrounding forested landscape; the Kynar 500 FSF Cool Metal Finish specified maintains a relatively high solar reflectance, reducing energy consumption by up to 40% despite the dark look.
A specific goal for the interior was to create a Primary Bathroom adjacent to the Primary Bedroom, a comfort feature lacking in the original design. To avoid increasing the footprint of the house, a second stair to the upper floor was removed to make room. The owners requested the Primary Bathroom be “spa-like”, enabling them to escape from the pressures of everyday life. The design incorporated wood slat wall paneling by Urban Evolutions that is Living Building Challenge Red List Free. The window adjacent to the tub is situated so that the view of the rear yard is at eye-height while enjoying the splendor of a hot bath. Existing clerestory windows at the top of the upper floor were replaced with motorized windows that can open to relieve hot air, promoting natural ventilation throughout the house.
Replacing the second stair with windows in the entry foyer opened up views to the rear yard and forested creek beyond. FSC-rated Douglas fir wood flooring throughout warms the interiors and reflects the trees that surround the property. Ecosmar+ bioethanol fireplaces bring light and warmth to the living spaces without any harmful emissions. The decision to re-purpose the existing home and maintain the carbon that has already been captured reflects the most sustainable solution to meet the client’s needs.
Photography by: Bruce Damonte Photography
Size Cost Completed
3,567 Sq. Ft. Withheld at owner's request 2024











