Nielsen Schuh Architects Split Rock Springs Ranch
Description
Split Rock Springs Ranch extends from the mountain ridge several hundred feet to the ravine floor. The ranch combines extensive olive orchards with a rugged and dramatic natural setting. The house site is situated on an upper knoll, surrounded by native oaks, madrones and firs, with views across the valley to the coastal range. The crown of the knoll is left intact, with the house tucking into the slope, overlooking the setting. The compact house took form as two offset pavilions, comprising the main house with a master bedroom, and a guest room combined with an outdoor kitchen. The matching translucent glass walls of the two pavilions appear from the approach drive, flanking the outdoor entry. The entry leads to the main outdoor space - the pool terrace. Interior spaces of the main house open to the pool, while the guest house orientation creates private views. Broad overhangs shelter the house and terrace areas from the summer heat and winter rains. The overhangs are made possible with the repeated pi shaped steel frames that are first visible from the entry court approach. The off-grid solar photovoltaic system is inconspicuous, located below the house, following the south facing slope.
Architect
Photography
Bruce Damonte
Description
Split Rock Springs Ranch extends from the mountain ridge several hundred feet to the ravine floor. The ranch combines extensive olive orchards with a rugged and dramatic natural setting. The house site is situated on an upper knoll, surrounded by native oaks, madrones and firs, with views across the valley to the coastal range. The crown of the knoll is left intact, with the house tucking into the slope, overlooking the setting. The compact house took form as two offset pavilions, comprising the main house with a master bedroom, and a guest room combined with an outdoor kitchen. The matching translucent glass walls of the two pavilions appear from the approach drive, flanking the outdoor entry. The entry leads to the main outdoor space - the pool terrace. Interior spaces of the main house open to the pool, while the guest house orientation creates private views. Broad overhangs shelter the house and terrace areas from the summer heat and winter rains. The overhangs are made possible with the repeated pi shaped steel frames that are first visible from the entry court approach. The off-grid solar photovoltaic system is inconspicuous, located below the house, following the south facing slope.
Architect
Photography
Bruce Damonte
