This stunning farmhouse was designed by Zero Ten Design to fit into the existing traditional neighborhood of Napa Valley, California. The architects felt it was important to embrace the region’s agrarian history while injecting some modern design elements. This beginnings of this agrarian style home features an interesting backstory. The architect’s father, Robert Zeller, commissioned him to build this 3,400 square foot, four bedroom, three bath home for he and his wife.
This property has been in the family since 1934, starting with the purchase by Robert’s parents. ” Young Robert and his family lived in the house next door and this new addition primarily became the neighborhood playground,” states the architects. “During WWII, Hugo and Virginia turned it into a Victory Garden where neighbors grew and shared produce. After the War, the Zellers used it as the family garden for a time until reverting it back to a dirt lot.”
Project Team: Architect: Zero Ten Design | Landscape Architect: Randy Theume Design | Structural Engineer: ZFA Structural Engineers | General Contractor: Beaman Construction
An existing structure with a gambrel roof at the rear of the property known as the ‘Dog House’, was built by Robert’s dad in 1946 as a retirement office. This structure was the spring point for the style and massing of the new house. The ‘Dog House’ was incorporated into the site plan and connected to the new residence via a covered walkway adjacent to a private garden and patio.
What We Love: This agrarian style home features an inviting exterior facade that opens into warm and comfortable living spaces. A home designed for family gathering, the interiors are beautifully crafted with livability in mind. We are especially loving the tranquility of the master bedroom, with its wood beams and large French doors that opens to the backyard. Simple yet beautiful.
Tell Us: What do you think of the history behind this home and its design style? Any details you would like to have seen done differently? Please share your feedback below!
Above: The main body of the exterior facade consists of horizontal wood plank siding, while the dormers and shed roof elements are adorned with board and batten siding.
Above: The window manufacturer is Marvin. Exterior paint colors: house and trim is Chantilly Lace OC-65 | Benjamin Moore. The board and batten walls is Cement Gray 2112-60 | Benjamin Moore.
Above: The light fixture over the dining banquette is from Rejuvenation Lighting in Berkeley.
Above: The pendant lights above the kitchen island are from Rejuvenation in Berkeley.
Above: Traditionally, this style of home would have very distinct and separate main rooms, but the architects designed one big ‘Great Room’ on the ground floor, from front to back, that incorporates the living, kitchen, and dining areas. This open layout creates a large, communal space where the family can comfortably interact and entertain — an important goal from the beginning of the design phase.
Photos: Mariko Reed Architectural Photography
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