SEQUOIA HOUSE
Deep in the Giant Sequoia national forest, a house makes anew.
Four giant Sequoia trees stand proud at the high-elevation mountain site in Sequoia Crest, California — a former wildfire disaster zone — dozens of homes and ancient trees were lost in 2020.
The neighborhood is both damaged and breathtaking. A new community will reemerge. The forest will rehabilitate. This new building is a part of that process.
A plan was conceived to build a new house around the largest tree. The stepping maintains a visual proximity while keeping an appropriate setback.
The house cascades with the steep topography. We proposed lofting a large terrace high above the ground with guest bedrooms below it.
Dark, charred wood cladding was selected to blend with the deep colors of the forest. The charred cladding also provides excellent thermal and weather performance.
The dark volumes of space sit atop a heavy, stone-clad base. The stone provides durability and protection from the elements where needed most.
A raised foundation reduces the need for earthwork and provides lower level living space where most conducive.
A glass wall connects the house to the great mountain valley view.
A large terrace hosts different amenities including a spa, outdoor fireplace, and BBQ.
The 12' tall glass wall retracts and disappears to connect the interior and exterior.
An interior palette made of wood, stone, and dark metals intend to convey a sense of peace and nature.
The project is currently under construction.
