Portola Valley House

Portola Valley House deals in contrasts: it’s a home for two with the flexibility to become a house for many. The design brief was to create an intimate space and a single-story home to age in place, with enough space for the couple’s children and grandchildren to visit, and to be able to entertain large groups. Created as an idyllic escape with luxury hospitality in mind, the 10,000-square-foot home is designed to capitalize on views of the rolling hills overlooking the valley in several directions. The design maximizes the clients’ wellness-focused lifestyle, with relaxing spaces specifically created for meditation. As you enter the property, you cross a small bridge over a water feature,this tranquil courtyard arrival signifies a peaceful transition into the space and creates a sense of discovery. The home is designed to encourage outdoor circulation and capitalize on the stunning setting of the Portola Valley. The living room, kitchen, and dining area are all set to capture the dramatic 270-degree views the location offers. To emphasize the barrier-breaking between indoor and outdoor spaces, the glass walls, that look out on public areas, essentially disappear to combine with an expansive outdoor deck and pool area. SB Architects utilized a minimal amount of casing throughout the detailing of the home. A simple material palette of wood, stone, and raw steel carries throughout the house, with cedar ceilings adding warmth and texture to both interior settings and the cantilevered outdoor areas. Walls and trim are clad in Brazilian Ipe hardwood and naturally stained millwork continues throughout the house.