This contemporary net-zero was designed by architects Turnbull Griffin Haesloop, located on a property surrounded by mature oak trees and a natural pond in Sonoma, California. The homeowners wished to have the design of their home reflect and indoor-outdoor living environment to enjoy the beautiful summer weather. They wanted to provide their overnight guests with simple access to the swimming pool and the spring fed pond that lies beyond. The design of the dwelling was configured to frame the lush oak meadow as well as the pond within the context of the sprawling landscape.

The structure has been separated into two living pavilions with a thin floating roof that covers a central outdoor living area and frames the entryway. The roof partially cantilevers over a living roof, under which houses the bedrooms, kitchen and support spaces. The roof garden helps to visually link the dwelling with the surrounding landscape.

The property features a pool house that helps to extend the outdoor living spaces, offering expansive shade trellises. Inside you will find a playroom, changing room and a guest room. Additionally, space was created to hold the solar hot water tank and pool equipment.

This project was designed to be a net-zero home with passive cooling strategies; includes a cool roof, living roof, heavy insulation, operable windows and large overhangs. Working in conjunction, these features enable the dwelling to be comfortable throughout the year without the use of air conditioning. Photovoltaic powered electric heat pumps provides hot water for in-slab radiant heat, while solar hot water panels provides hot water for the swimming pool.

What We Love: Between the indoor-outdoor living spaces and the gorgeous scenery that surrounds this net-zero home, there is a lot to admire. A temperate climate throughout the year makes this living in this home and all it has to offer very ideal. Outdoor living areas can be enjoyed throughout the year. A serene, relaxing environment, we can feel the stress melting away living in this way… would you agree?

As you scroll through the article you will notice “Related” tags, these feature other home tours we have featured here on One Kindesign by the architects of Turnbull Griffin Haesloop.

RELATED: Hupomone Ranch: LEED Platinum house in Sonoma County

RELATED: Sebastopol Residence opens towards a forested landscape

RELATED: Secluded ranch home between mountain and sea

RELATED: Ranch style home transformed into family retreat in Sausalito

At the pond’s edge, the outdoor living spaces have been further expanded to offer the home’s inhabitants a cozy fire pit area. There is also a small dock to provide access into the water on kayaks and to go swimming.

Photos: Matthew Millman