The intent for this residence designed by Signum Architecture, was to create a serene contemporary retreat that embraces the land and views, taking full advantage of the site while mitigating the visual impact of nearby homes and tempering the effect of Petaluma’s infamous afternoon winds.

Set in the town of Petaluma, in Sonoma County, California, the site for this project lies between old farms and new development, surrounded by homes but with a clear view of the hills to the west.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECTURE Signum Architecture CONSTRUCTION DN Anderson Construction

Placement on the site was important to simultaneously capture the views of the hills and obscure the views of neighboring development. We rotated the house, setting it diagonally on its east-west facing site to orient it toward the westerly views and away from the afternoon winds that blow in from the east.

The organization of the house is straightforward, with two strong axes forming the core of the project. The first, which lies directly in line with the view, is expressed in walls of native stone.

The second, set perpendicular to the first, is sheathed in stucco. The transparent entry lies at the intersection of the two axes, revealing the distant vistas and the pool set on the axis with the view.

With just two bedrooms and a separate studio, this is not a large house. Public and private areas align on either side of the main entry – separate pavilions linked by the glassed-in entry.

The architecture is contemporary, with flat roofs, deep overhangs, clean lines, and earth tones that connect it to the land. The interior’s 11-foot ceilings and minimalist finishes form a light and airy interior. A delicate trellis of black steel shades the rear facade.

What We Love: This serene contemporary retreat offers its occupants a place of refuge with sweeping views of Sonoma Valley. The architecture of this dwelling inspires and elevates everyday life. Overall this is a place of solitude with beautifully designed living spaces that are perfect for both daily living and entertaining in style. 

Tell Us: What details in the design of this project do you find most appealing? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other amazing home tours that we have featured here on One Kindesign in Sonoma County: Inside the stunning renovation of a farmhouse in Sonoma Wine Country and Sonoma vineyard home with casual indoor-outdoor living spaces.

PHOTOGRAPHER Adam Potts