Our brief was to design a new hilltop estate on a hilly 100 acre site in the California foothills south of San Jose. The top of the most prominant hill was crowned with a ring of mature oak trees leaving an open area on top. By placing the house behind the trees we achieved a hilltop house with filtered views of the countryside below without the house being highly visable from below. One signature oak tree, located near te top of the hill became a focus for our design and the imputus to divide the house into two pavillions connected by a garden hallway.
Santa Barbara Inspired Estate
California Foothills

Hilltop site

Signature oak tree divides the two wings

Landscape based on native palnts

Meandering path to the entry

A library tower over the entry

The house opens to a pool at back

The summer room, a covered lounge

Views under shaped arches

Outdoor fire

Signature oak viewed from connecting hall

Connecting hall with views to front and back

Main stair to upper floor

Open walkway over connecting hall

View down into back courtyard

Arches frame views into entry hall

View into lounge and dining

Heavy wood trusses set the theme in the lounge

Filtered light from covered porch, mural of local landscape

Detailing of kitchen matches house

Family room filled with light

Bay window with view of library tower

Period detailing in master bathroom

Stencils and lights in ceiling cove
Credits
Architect: Mike McKay Staff Architect: Patricia Carpentieri Builder: OPI Construction, San Jose