Architects: John Lum Architecture
Project: Pole Residence
Interior Design: Mansfield & O’Neil
Location: Larkspur, California, United States
Photography: Paul Dyer
From the architect: Our clients loved their location and were very satisfied with the size of their house located in a sylvan setting of Larkspur; however, they hated the suburban aesthetics of the former house and were tired of its dark, dreary interiors. The complete remodel transformed the Pole Residence into to a light-filled, open plan jewel-box of a house, that now delights and serves the client. The focus of this project was on the quality of the space, not the quantity, allowing higher grade materials while remaining budget conscious.
The three bedrooms remained where they had been located, while the demising walls between the family, kitchen, living and dining were removed to create a cascading great room, allowing for hill views that were previously blocked by an awkward masonry fireplace and inefficient floor plan.
Large sliding doors allow access to the existing pool terrace, and a dramatic linear skylight traces the former closed off hallway flooding the interior of the house with daylight. A painted wood wall distinguishes the private areas (laundry, study and bedrooms) from the public areas while adding textural interest. The exterior of the Pole Residence is a restrained modern statement, with natural wood soffits and generous windows, allowing the house to blend into its wooded site, creating an updated Larkspur vibe.
