Cathy Schwabe Architecture in collaboration with John Lum Architecture has designed this GreenPoint Rated house located in downtown Palo Alto, California. The cutting-edge design merges seamlessly with comfort and efficiency in this 5,500-square-foot innovative healthy home.

With more than 35 green building strategies, highlights include a Hydronic cooling system integrated into the ceilings, refreshing planted living walls, and a rooftop patio garden oasis. Additionally, an irrigation system that utilizes recycled gray water promotes a health-conscious lifestyle for its inhabitants.

PROJECT DETAILS: INTERIOR ARCHITECT John Lum Architecture AOR/EXTERIOR ARCHITECT Cathy Schwabe Architecture CONTRACTOR Drew Maran Construction LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Arterra Landscape Architects LIGHTING DESIGNER Illuminosa

For this family of four, their commitment to environmental responsibility started when they began the arduous task of deconstructing the original structure. Salvaging materials for reuse was just the beginning; their dedication to sustainable choices extended to the use of Flyash concrete, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wood, low and/or zero VOC content finishes, and recycled content insulation.

The use of these sustainable materials in the design of this home contributed to an impressive 260 points score on the GreenPoint Rating system (a third-party verification of green homes and an independent seal of approval that reassures homeowners that a home is healthier, more comfortable, durable, and resource-efficient).

Positioned on a double lot, this sustainably designed house showcases radiant cooling in the ceiling and computer-controlled windows that provide natural ventilation. Its exterior is entirely clad in unstained redwood, specifically designed for extensive outdoor living, featuring an elaborate roof deck retreat for the master suite.

Inside this elegant home, you will find an airy great room with an open kitchen, a private study, a mudroom, and a powder room on the main level. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a master bedroom suite, while the basement level encompasses a recreation room and guest suite. There is an additional separate guesthouse attached at the rear of this home.

What We Love: This Palo Alto house provides its occupants with an eco-friendly living environment in its unique design. There are so many cool features in this home, especially the roof deck retreat with its outdoor shower and tub that has an operable shade screen for the elements. The vertical garden wall and built-in planters in the backyard are also a fabulous design element, perfect for an urban house to make you feel like you are living in the countryside.

Tell Us: What design features do you like best in this home and what would you change? Please share your thoughts in the Comments, we love reading your feedback!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other amazing home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the state of California: Massive oak tree defines this incredible modern sanctuary in Northern California and Fresh modern update to an Eichler house in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Above: A bent steel plate and bamboo staircase that joins all three levels — basement, main and upper level.

Above: The owner’s bathroom has a corner window with clear and translucent glass. The concrete countertop has an integral sink.

Above: A walk-through shower to the outdoor deck with an outdoor shower and tub.

Above: This second-floor deck garden features a built-in outdoor tub, planters, and an operable shade screen. 

Above: This outdoor tub on the second-floor garden deck has a folding cover.

Above: This second-floor deck features an outdoor shower and tub, a living roof, and a built-in bench.

Above: A glass and steel bridge over a light well connects the entry to the rear garden. 

Above: This exterior staircase leads to a below-grade patio/garden. A planted green wall and built-in planters create an intimate outdoor oasis in the city.

Above: A rear garden view with the second-floor deck visible through an opening at the upper left. The rear porch is in the center. The guest house is a one-story wing on the right side.

PHOTOGRAPHER David Wakely