Sea Ranch Escape by Butler Armsden Architects and Leverone Design

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Photography by Joe Fletcher

Offering a peaceful getaway for a couple from San Francisco, Sea Ranch Escape blends the tranquillity of coastal living with the rugged, sloping terrain of the cliffs it rests upon.

Butler Armsden Architects and Leverone Design integrate modern and familiar elements throughout the space, incorporating spacious interiors and framed views that anchor the home firmly in place. By incorporating sustainable building practices, the architect and designer ensure harmony in every detail. Situated along the California coast, the dwelling harmonises with its surroundings through a palette of complementary materials, seamlessly blending textures to blur the boundaries between the built and the natural. Butler Armsden Architects and Leverone Design create a sanctuary for the owners – whose primary residence is in San Francisco – bridging the rugged cliffs and the every-changing currents of the ocean.

Butler Armsden Architects and Leverone Design integrate modern and familiar elements throughout the space, incorporating spacious interiors and framed views that anchor the home firmly in place.

It was important to reflect the owners’ personalities throughout the design, particularly as they wanted the residence to feel like a home away from home. The interior employs a base palette of muted neutrals and soft timbers while maximising natural light and reducing the need for artificial lighting where possible. Harnessing the site’s potential for sustainable energy use was key. The residence’s foundation is deeply rooted not only in the rocky terrain but also in principles aimed at minimising environmental impact.

Faced with the challenge of a sloping site, the design achieves a delicate balance, where structured and rectilinear forms assert themselves in place, seemingly defying the natural contours of the terrain. Incorporating floor-to-ceiling glazing ensures a connection to the surroundings, maintaining a sense of place within the interior spaces. Framed views of the nearby ocean serve as gentle reminders of the coastal setting, infusing the abode with a serene ambience. Nestled independently amid lush greenery, the home not only provides a retreat but also benefits from natural protection against harsh winds, further enhancing its tranquil appeal.

Faced with the challenge of a sloping site, the design achieves a delicate balance, where structured and rectilinear forms assert themselves in place, seemingly defying the natural contours of the terrain.

Crafted to be more than a holiday home, Sea Ranch Escape offers an immersive journey into nature. Butler Armsden Architects and Leverone Design achieve this by infusing the owners’ personalities into the materials and details, fostering a deep connection between the dwelling and its environment.

Architecture by Butler Armsden Architects. Interior design by Leverone Design. Build by Clayton Timbrell & Company. Landscape design by Gualala Nursery and Trading Company.