Project Details

Montecito Residence is a single-family home set in the fire-prone Toro Canyon. The owners wanted a house that minimized its use of scarce natural resources and recognized the challenging environmental conditions of the area. The design solution is a house that functions as an umbrella to shield the house from the sun and allows naturally cool offshore breezes to move through the space. The house is made of simple, fire resistant materials. Steel will be allowed to oxidize and concrete will be toned to allow the house to blend into the landscape.

Interiors by Olson Kundig Architects.

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Recognition

Interiors

The principle goal for Montecito Residence was to sit lightly on the landscape and provide a no-nonsense environment for the clients to live and interact with the surrounding beauty. To achieve this we utilized raw materials such as steel, glass and concrete, keeping the material palette to a minimum. Each interior space contains full height sliding doors and windows to allow the entire house to be open to the surrounding landscape. Furnishings were kept elegant and minimal, allowing the landscape outside the house to become the focus. This dog-loving client owns three golden retrievers who are integral members of the family. The 100 foot long entry hall and concrete floors throughout the house provide interior space to run and cool places to rest in this warm southern California climate. The durable materials and furnishings perform well in this canine friendly home.