IN THE HAMLET…

of Sea Ranch, California, this Sonoma County sanctuary rests just above the intersection of Pacific ocean and craggy coastline. The main house was originally designed by Ralph Matheson circa the early 70s and sensitively remodeled in 1990 by William Turnbull & Associates. From there the property lay static for nearly 20 years until the home’s current owners moved in…

AFTER LIVING… on site as-is for four years, the homeowners — whose main residence is a historic San Francisco 1870s Italianate Victorian — had two primary requests of architect Butler Armsden Architects and interior designer Matthew Leverone: ocean visibility and ample gathering space. Also a priority for the homeowners? That all finishes withstand both the elements and the comings and goings of a large family.

IN KEEPING WITH… Sea Ranch’s design principles, the structure maintains a dramatic “to the sky” aesthetic accentuated by new vertical grain, clear cedar siding. The interior siding was similarly replaced with vertical grain clear fir. Ultra minimal, aluminum Fleetwood Windows with motorized shades and updated lighting serve to further support the well thought out finishes and detailing.

ADDITIONS AND… enhancements abound in this thoughtful remodel, which largely preserves the main house’s original floor plan. A new tower — accessible by a powder coated steel circular staircase — was added to create his and her offices, while the attached existing garage was transformed into a tranquil family room. A second structure was conceived to house the new garage and spacious guest quarters complete with their own lounge areas.

AN EXTRAORDINARY… environment deserves extraordinary accoutrements. To that end, all fabrics and furnishings were scrupulously selected to reflect and complement the natural beauty of the Sea Ranch locale. In addition to harmonious white washed Douglas Fir paneling, the home also features Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace — a favorite of both the interior designer and architect for accenting art.

PICTURESQUE…

panoramas await everywhere – from the master bath featuring a WetStyle freestanding bathtub and Dornbracht fixtures to a perfectly situated hot tub, outdoor shower, fire pit and barbecue station. In a setting like this, Butler Armsden Architects and Leverone Design clearly understood; it’s all about the views!

Photography by Joe Fletcher