Downtown living had its benefits, but for our clients, they longed for the simplicity and serenity that existed outside the city limits. So when the young couple came across a World War II-era ranch house on multiple acres in Los Altos Hills, they acted quickly to purchase it, but took their time to ponder the possibilities of what could be built in its place. They ultimately entrusted FGA to reassess and re-envision the design to better suit the land and their lifestyle.

Visually anchored by a mature oak tree in a center courtyard, the home is sited to promote unobstructed views of the natural landscape as well as the protected play area for the family’s two active children. It is also built low to the ground and composed of authentic materials, cedar wood siding and locally quarried stone, so that it blends into its tree-studded surroundings. Inside, soaring vaulted ceilings and towering bronze-colored steel windows impart airiness. The living, dining, and family rooms spill out towards the courtyard and pool through three large doors to encourage seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.