Casa la Vista

Nestled in the oak woodland overlooking the town of Sonoma, this multi-level contemporary home came with both valley views and the comforting feeling of being enclosed by forrest.  Extensive tree work and clearing of fire-prone understory reduced fire danger, and allowed more light in for new plantings.  Inside the new sliding entry gate and wall, the entry drive was rerouted to meander between existing oaks, and to create more space around the existing pool and create a small play lawn and dining deck under the oaks.

New bluestone steps and landings lead guests to the updated front entry, flanked by drifts of Blue Chalk Sticks, Bull Grass and Lavender, with John Dourley Manzanitas.  An outdoor dining terrace is shaded by mature Coast Live Oaks, and a cozy fire pit terrace with cushioned seat walls is embraced by colorful plantings of Lion’s Tail, Mexican Sage, and Chalk Sticks.

Along with a new open-sided pool cabana by architect Chris Cahill, the existing pool was remodeled to create a longer lap lane, add a slide, and change the interior finishes and pool deck.  A new plaster retaining wall created more generous space for pool side lounging.

The rugged property includes a remote vegetable garden, a tennis court, a rooftop terrace with spa and fireplace, and a separate ‘bike barn’ for the owner’s vintage motorcycles, with a home office.

 

 

Architecture: Cahill Studio

Construction: SLM Builders

Landscape Installation:  Roy’s Landscaping

Photography:  Eileen Roche Photography