This magnificent Japanese-inspired house was reimagined by Feldman Architecture with sweeping views over the Mount Sutro Open Reserve in the Twin Peaks neighborhood of San Francisco, California. Initially built in 1964 by architect Albert Lanier, the renovation now more accurately embodies the personalities of the current inhabitants — a couple deeply engaged in yoga and with a passion for travel.

Inspired by the sloping hill and bountiful garden, a collaborative effort between the owner and architect sought to elevate the property into a modern transformation by opening up the original compartmentalized main floor, with the goal of visually and physically connecting it to the spacious rear yard.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Feldman Architecture INTERIORS Feldman Architecture BUILDER Upscale Construction LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Ground Studio Landscape Architecture LIGHTING DESIGN Kim Cladas Lighting Design STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Strandberg Engineering LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR Frank & Grossman CABINETMAKER Eby Construction

Encompassing 2,995 square feet of living space, the dwelling features a triangular alcove, sloped gardens, and a plunge pool.

The structure of this dwelling was mostly preserved to celebrate the exposed beams, high ceiling, and Japanese ski cabin design.  A light gray wash was added for harmony, in addition to highly crafted materials and details to enhance its charm and create moments of architectural interest.

What We Love: This Japanese inspired house offers a newly revamped home with expansive outdoor living spaces that offer a zen-like feel. Open and airy living spaces promote a feeling of relaxation, where the lines between indoors and out are blurred. We are especially loving the cozy reading nook that connects to the rooftop deck, providing inspired views of a lush forest.

Tell Us: What are your thoughts on the overall design aesthetics of this home? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Take a look at a couple of other amazing San Francisco home tours that we have featured here on One Kindesign: Visually striking open and airy modern home in San Francisco and Modern family home is an urban oasis in San Francisco.

The soft, minimalist palette is enhanced by whimsical touches — a thoughtful collaboration between the architect and the homeowners. A blue velvet sofa, leather-topped bar stools, carefully selected decorative tiles, light fixtures, and a collection of unique sculptures the owner had picked up on a trip to Copenhagen create a diacritic space reflective of her unique personality.

Her direct involvement and excitement are what made this project so special. The home isn’t generic because of her willingness to take risks and add in fun details.

Predominate materials in this Japanese inspired house include sleek white oak and steel.

Beneath a pitched ceiling and butterfly-like skylights, sits a cozy reading nook with direct access to a new roof deck, complete with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Running the height of the stairwell is a wood slat screen, acting as a privacy screen that still allows the light to gently filter in.

The master bedroom is preceded by a yoga annex and allows immediate access to the rear garden, while the upper living space flows easily out to the comfortable hillside carrel.

PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Fletcher Photography