HEALDSBURG, CALIFORNIA
Ridge House
Set high in the Mayacamas Mountains, on a road known for its rugged beauty, this project was designed to settle into its steep site, embracing the expansive views and taking advantage of a limited footprint for the structure and gardens. The owners love living in this rural setting, largely off the grid and immersed in the landscape. Humble and down-to-earth, they were ideal clients for this years-long project—a home that is truly a labor of love.
The landscape design is inspired by the surrounding terrain—a mixture of oaks, pines and grasslands characterized by steep slopes and far-reaching views—transforming the language of the surrounding ecosystem into a landscape that is more ordered and architectural. The gardens—exposed to wildlife and the elements—are hardy and deer-resistant, with a uniform palette that reflects the various greens of the surrounding hillside. Accessible plantings—lomandra, lambs ear, sage—soften the edges between planted and natural landscapes, while kangaroo paws and leucadendrons add a hint of color.
The arrival courtyard, between the street-facing garage and the view-facing home, is an essential part of the experience, providing a first look at the view through the house to the valley below, and a space to linger and enjoy. A fountain on the north-facing wall, inspired by the water that drips down the rocky hillside, draws visitors toward the front door. Visible from within through double height windows, the fountain is a defining feature of both interior and exterior environments.
Set below the house, the pool terrace opens to the view, bookended by a pool house, bath, barbeque and bar, complete with a “kegerator” ready for when Grandma visits. At the northern corner, which sees sunlight year-round, a firepit and built-in seating area form a lovely lookout toward the mountainous views to the north and west.
Landscape: Paredes Landscaping and Robinwood Construction Builder: Finley Contracting Inc. Pool Construction: Oxbow Pool & Landscape Photographer: Eileen Roche