This Japanese-inspired craftsman house was designed by John Lum Architecture, located in Hillsborough, a town in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. Nestled on an incredible 2-acre hillside property, this heavy-timber house boasts 180-degree views over the Bay. Created for a family of five, the concept for the design was centered on “play”.
The design was directly influenced by the owner’s affinity for nature and their desire to construct a home in a style that spoke to them. They did not want a cold modern box nor did they want to build a historical revival house so typical of this affluent community. The architects designed this dwelling using natural materials that clearly express structure while emphasizing the cozy and intimate versus the grand.
DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT John Lum Architecture INTERIOR DESIGN Mansfield + O’Neil CONTRACTOR Von Clemm Construction
Although traditional in feeling, this 8,000 square foot house is a casual house designed for a lifetime of living for this family. The main rooms have been placed along the edge of the slope in a linear arrangement to afford a view while allowing for maximum sun and breeze exposure.
What We Love: This Japanese-inspired craftsman house offers its occupants a warm and inviting atmosphere beginning with the exterior facade. The heavy use of wood timbers welcomes family and guests inside where light and airy living spaces frame sweeping views over the San Francisco Bay area. Our favorite space is the great room, with its soaring ceilings, comfortable furnishings and walls of glazing inviting nature inside.
Tell Us: What do you think of the overall architectural aesthetics of this home? Would this be your idea of the ultimate family home? Let us know in the Comments below!
Note: Be sure to have a look at a couple of other fascinating home tours that we have featured here on One Kindesign in Northern California: Mountain contemporary cabin boasts impressive details in Martis Camp and Rammed earth house hidden in the forested hills of Northern California.
A generous entry porch welcomes the visitor, leading past a stair hall to the double-volume great room, showcasing views of Mt. Diablo peak in the East Bay. Designed to be the heart and active space of the home, it borders a large open kitchen, breakfast nook, outdoor sitting room, and kids’ study directly connecting to the space.
A formal dining room, game room, parent studies (an octagonal space in homage to Frank Lloyd Wright), guest suite, and dog room complete the first floor.
Upstairs are four bedrooms, all uniquely configured as they are tucked under the heavily timbered attic space.
A 2,000 square foot partial basement contains a media room, wine cellar, gym, and man cave.
PHOTOGRAPHER Interior Photography: Paul Dyer / Exterior Photography: Richard Barnes
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