Designed by John Maniscalco Architecture, this spectacular modern mountain retreat is nestled within a peaceful forested property in Martis Valley, Tahoe, California. Situated on a gently sloping wooded site, the residence gracefully weaves its way through the landscape, offering a harmonious blend of seclusion from the street and breathtaking vistas of meadows and the majestic Pacific Crest mountains.

The architectural composition revolves around a unified concept, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces beneath a single, gently sloping roof. This design element not only facilitates a connection with the surrounding natural beauty but also opens up towards the peaks of the mountains and the vast expanse of the sky.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT John Maniscalco Architecture GENERAL CONTRACTOR Crestwood Construction INTERIORS/FURNISHINGS Dovetail Designworks LANDSCAPE Litchfield Design + Consulting CIVIL ENGINEER Gary Davis Group STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Colovich Fettig Bjur Engineers MECHANICAL ENGINEER Weld Fickel LIGHTING DESIGN Hiram Banks Lighting Design ENERGY CONSULTANT Denise Kowal P.E.

To ensure privacy and distinct spatial experiences, the public and private areas are thoughtfully arranged as separate wings, each offering its own unique perspectives of the picturesque landscape.

The great room serves as a focal point, inviting residents and guests to revel in panoramic views and forge a direct relationship with the surrounding environment. On the other hand, the bedroom wing masterfully frames carefully selected vistas while emphasizing its connection to the sloping terrain through an entirely cantilevered owner’s bedroom that seemingly floats above the valley floor below.

Organized with a mindful consideration of the sun’s movement across the site, the program elements of the retreat cater to specific lighting conditions throughout the day.

The bedrooms are strategically oriented to capture the gentle morning sun, while the primary spaces bask in abundant daylight. The outdoor dining and spa areas are grazed by dusk light.

Employing a natural palette of materials that seamlessly integrate with the site, such as stained cedar, zinc roofing, and board-form concrete, the residence engages in a quiet dialogue with its surroundings from spring through fall. However, during the winter months, this dialogue undergoes a dramatic transformation as the dark stains of the house contrast strikingly against the white snowscape.

What We Love: This serene minimalist retreat is surrounded by mountains, lakes and forest. Created as a dream house for its inhabitants to escape from city living, the design of this striking home takes its inspiration from the untamed beauty of the surrounding terrain. The result is a contemporary sanctuary that harmoniously blends with its environment—an elegant, rustic haven characterized by its elongated, low-profile design.

Tell Us: What do you think of overall design aesthetics mountain modern retreat in Tahoe? Let us know your thoughts in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of California: Explore this spectacular mountain contemporary getaway in Lake Tahoe and Luxury lakefront mountain home boasts panoramic views of Lake Tahoe.

PHOTOGRPAHER Joe Fletcher Photography