Contemporary Mediterranean Residence

LocationSonoma, CA

ArchitectTaylor Lombardo Architects

Landscape ArchitectRoche + Roche Landscape Architecture

PhotographerDouglas Sterling Photography

Interior DesignerMartha Angus Design

Structural EngineerJohnson, DeBois & Forrest

The full-scale renovation of this 6,025-square-foot home originally built in 2013 took the structure down to the bare studs, transforming a dark, visually cluttered home into a contemporary, light-filled residence. The home, which faces south toward Mt. Tamalpais with expansive views overlooking Sonoma and the San Francisco Bay, now lives up to its spectacular site and views.

Contemporary Mediterranean Residence map

Working within the home’s original footprint, the primary goals for this project were to eliminate extraneous structural elements and design detailing and draw light into the interiors. Removing stucco and plywood revealed structural challenges such as compromised waterproofing and dry rot. To open up the interior spaces, interior columns were eliminated, immediately expanding the sense of interior space. A new, clean-lined exterior trellis was constructed with operable louvers, which can be adjusted to help usher light into the interiors.

Peeling back ornate interior detailing shifted the focus to the detailed craftsmanship and high-quality materials throughout the home. Intersections between finishes were matched with great precision. White oak floors and limestone fireplace mantels and surrounds were sourced from France, and new windows were fabricated in Italy by CG Serementi to work within the original openings.

The lack of window casings on the interior called for precise construction. Exterior decking is designed atop a non-grounded, adjustable pedestal system, creating a permeable surface and promoting drainage.