A hillside home that merges with the landscape of Big Sur Nestled along the rugged coastline of Northern Big Sur, California, this residence by Studio Schicketanz exemplifies a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. The house is strategically positioned between Highway One and Malpaso Creek, offering expansive views of the Pacific Ocean while remaining enveloped by the area's natural terrain. The design features interconnected pavilion-style volumes that gracefully step down the hillside. From a distance, the home appears as an extension of the landscape, with its green roofs seamlessly continuing the line of the hill, visually merging the architecture with its surroundings. The exterior is a composition of local granite stone walls and concrete finished in warm earth tones, echoing the cliffs and rocky coastline nearby. Floor-to-ceiling glass expanses on both sides of the home invite ocean air and sunlight, while sliding glass walls dissolve the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces, leading to terraces and a swimming pool. A hidden courtyard at the rear of the house provides a sheltered retreat, surrounded by textured stone walls and a curved concrete seating area. This private patio contrasts with the open, ocean-facing side of the home, offering a tranquil space protected from the Pacific winds. Inside, the home balances modern architecture with warm finishes and handcrafted details. Mosaic walls introduce subtle color, while Venetian plaster adds texture. Wood ceilings connect the interiors to the natural tones of the exterior, and granite walls continue indoors, enhancing the visual connection with the coastal terrain. The main bedroom and en-suite bathroom maintain the home's modern yet comfortable aesthetic, with soft textures and natural light enhancing the spaces. An outdoor shower enclosed by stone walls offers a private yet connected experience with nature.
Design Highlights
Pavilion-style volumes integrated into the hillside Green roofs that blend with the landscape Use of local granite and earth-toned concrete Floor-to-ceiling glass for expansive views Hidden courtyard with stone walls and desert plants Interiors with mosaic and Venetian plaster accents Wood ceilings and granite walls for warmth and texture
Key Facts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Big Sur, California, USA |
| Architect | Studio Schicketanz |
| Materials | Local granite, earth-toned concrete, glass |
| Key Elements | Green roofs, hidden courtyard, sliding glass walls |
| Interior Highlights | Mosaic walls, Venetian plaster, wood ceilings |















