Lake House
Sonoma, CaliforniaWhen our out-of-state clients determined to have a California house near their kids and grandkids, they were thrilled to find this rare lakeside property just a short walk down the road. This neighborhood of estates shares the frontage of a small lake, but only this property featured a charming shingled boat house and dock, perfect for sunset cocktails while watching their grandsons fish, and the local waterfowl come and go.
The existing residence was the right size for the couple and occasional guests, but needed to be updated, and stripped of its faux-craftsman detailing back to its mid-century modern roots. The lush landscape had become so overgrown the connection to the lake had been lost from all but the upper floor.
From the new guest parking area down at garage level, limestone steps and landings climb through the landscape to the first-floor entry, with an adjacent terrace looking across the play lawn to the lake, sheltered by the second floor above. Selective tree and shrub removals helped to reconnect both floors of the house to views of the boat house, the lake, and Sonoma Mountain beyond.
Outside the great room, a stone fire pit and seat wall under overhanging mature oaks accommodate the couple, or a small crowd. A new pool and spa with chaises for sunning, and a shade pergola connect to the play lawn for their grandsons.
Along the edge of the lake, near the boathouse, a gravel outdoor dining terrace with string lighting enjoys views out over the lake. A section of the nearby gravel drive, which serves as part of the required lake perimeter access, doubles as a pétanque court. At the rear of the house, we placed an intimate dining terrace off the kitchen, with eastern views over the Sonoma Valley to the Mayacamas, and terraced herb and vegetable beds.
Architecture: Marcus & Willers Architects
Interior Design: Christine Curry Design
Construction: Landers Curry, Inc.
Landscape Installation: Eternal Landscape Solutions
Photography: Eileen Roche Photography