Josh Blumer & Clay Aurell — Architects
“Regardless of where we’re from or what we do for a living, life’s hard. We all need a place to call home, a place that nourishes us.”
As the project progressed, the owners fell in love with it and the scope expanded from weekend cabin to full-time residence to two-building compound: the cabin with addition main house and the pool house with guest suite. Spaces are oriented to take in a variety of views—the gardens, oak forest, ocean, or Santa Ynez mountains. The shared palette of black wood stains, metal finishes, and generous glass walls creates a cohesive look. As striking as the structures are, the intentional space between is every bit as important. A series of stepped decks, social stairs, and seating areas form the ultimate outdoor living room. Thoughtfully designed pathways invite lots of movement to comfortably explore the property, which is pleasant for the family and large gatherings alike. Artfully placed boulders nod to the property’s former life as a rock quarry.
Additive rather than intrusive, the construction process respected the property’s character. The new architecture has a distinct soulful vibe and feels like a world away from the everyday. Carefully edited indoors and out, the modern family compound embodies an elegant simplicity while evoking the goodness of traditional Scandinavianhygge where loved ones draw closer and time seems toexpand
Photography by Sam Frost
Photography by Jason Rick
Photography by Jason Rick