HILLCREST RESIDENCE

Location: Montecito, California
Project Type: Residential
Size: 5,000 SF
Year: 2022
Service: Architecture

“This project stands as a sophisticated dialogue between architecture and nature, where every element is thoughtfully designed to enhance the living experience while honoring the natural beauty of the site.”

Nestled amidst the mature oak groves and perched above breathtaking city and mountain views, this residence is a testament to modern architecture’s ability to harmonize with nature. The design brief was clear: to create a home that not only captures the stunning vistas but also feels intrinsically connected to its natural surroundings. The design solution achieves this by elevating the main living spaces, giving the structure a pavilion-like quality that floats above the landscape. This elevation minimizes the house’s footprint, preserving the integrity of the site and respecting the existing oak trees. The continuous concrete walls that flank the property serve a dual purpose—they guide the entry procession, revealing the home’s beauty gradually while also creating a visual and physical separation between the motor court and the tranquil living areas. The roof, with its low slope and razor-thin profile, further accentuates the home’s lightness, appearing to hover effortlessly above the living and dining spaces. Clerestory windows allow natural light to flood the interiors while maintaining privacy. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is further enhanced by the expansive glass walls, which offer uninterrupted views and a seamless transition between the interior and the landscaped outdoor areas, including the pool with its Plexiglas edge that visually extends into the horizon.