The Blacksmith’s Farm
The owners use the home as a retreat from urban living and to host large family functions. They enjoy the reclusive / private aspect of forested surroundings and aural textures of nearby seasonal creek. The property was originally a homestead and farm that included a concrete bunker for blacksmith and forging. The remnants of iron carriage components, as well as implements for farming were found in various old outbuildings. The simple form of the original wooden clad outbuildings provided inspiration for the house design.
Project Type
Custom home
Style
West Coast Modern
Square Footage
4000
Exterior Features
- Country acreage
- Large outdoor covered area
- Outdoor fireplace
- Aligning house to natrual features and light
- Main house and office studio connected by an open breezeway
Interior Features
- Polished concrete floor with hydronic heating
- Minimal modern finishes
- Three fireplaces
- Bedrooms / Studio each with appointed bathrooms
- Lift and Slide doors connect the interior to an expansive patio
Challenges
- Creating a perfectly flat building site on gently undulating rock by cutting and filling native basalt rock
- Opening the forest to bring in light without impacting a nearby riparian area
- Successfully extending driveway to rear of acreage across a seasonal wetlands