Design-build studio Remick Associates Architects created this contemporary weekend retreat, which is nestled amongst the vineyards of Napa Valley, California. Five couples spent a weekend together in Napa Valley and, after a long day of wine tasting, they decided two days just wasn’t enough. They got to talking about how fantastic it would be to have a vacation home here. One of those people happened to be Nic Ehr, a principal and owner of Remick Associates. The next day it was settled, five of the ten people in the group committed to finding the perfect wine country retreat.
The home they finally settled on turned out to be an unfinished Swiss chalet-style home. A contractor had built it for himself but it never got completed. The lot had junk strewn all over it, as the contractor would work on other remodeling projects and bring odd ends home with him and dump them around his property. The residence was purchased and then demolished, and then built in its place, a modern take on a farmhouse. Consisting of 4,500 square feet of living space, there are four bathrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms.
The result was a clean-lined structure punctuated with seven modern gables and spaces for both gathering and privacy. There are three spacious suites for the owners, which are comprised of sleeping, bathing and a relaxation area outfitted with finishes and fixtures selected to their tastes. This enabled them to create their own private hideaway simply by closing the door. There is a communal kitchen, dining, living room and theater for all to enjoy.
What We Love: This spectacular weekend retreat features a simple barn structure, surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the rolling vineyards. With plenty of outdoor spaces, homeowners can relax and enjoy the amazing climate this area has to offer. Comfortable shared living spaces are perfect for friends to spend quality time together relaxing and enjoying their peaceful environment—both indoors and out.
Readers, please share your thoughts on this home… would you buy a vacation home to share with your friends? Let us know why or why not in the comments below!
Above: The indoor dining room opens onto an alfresco eating area.
Above: The peaked hallway mimics the exterior gables and acts as a gallery for Ehr’s art collection.
Above: The bathroom is flooded with light, thanks to the glass-block ceiling overhead. The same glass squares also make up the floor of the loft over the bedroom.
Above: A glass hallway leads from the main house to two private suites.
Above: The home takes advantage of the stunning views of rolling hills, Mount Tamalpais and San Francisco Bay.
Above: The patio area features a spa, outdoor cooking center and an infinity pool that seems to flow into the valley. This is the perfect spot to enjoy sunshine during the day and watch the sunset at night.
Photos: Paul Dyer
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