SAN ANSELMO RESIDENCE
SAN ANSELMO, CA

Modern Spanish Architecture

This reimagined San Anselmo Spanish Style cottage features a two story modern addition. Built in 1920, this home was remodeled to accommodate a growing family. The character of the existing house is preserved in the front facade, while the modern addition extends at the back.

Design Specifics

The new addition features pocketing glass sliding doors that open up to an outdoor living space with a re-landscaped yard and new pool. The existing ceilings in the kitchen and living rooms were raised to 14 feet, and new windows were added to make the spaces feel open and light.

The kitchen showcases custom white oak cabinetry paired with black upper cabinets with mesh inserts and a Neolith countertop waterfall island. In the living room, recycled wood beams and hearth add warmth and character.

Sustainable Architecture for Marin County

Operational energy used to run a building has long been a focus in sustainable design. For the San Anselmo residence, the spotlight was also on embodied carbon and reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction to the installation and disposal of building materials.

We have long asserted that adhering to sustainable design standards doesn’t mean your materials and design choices are compromised. For this project, we used cross-laminated timber, which sequesters carbon and is highly sustainable and beautiful.

The San Anselmo Residence was also designed for longevity by ensuring resilience, durability, and adaptability. We achieved this by using robust materials, designing for easy repair and maintenance, and ensuring spaces can evolve to meet future climate challenges and changing occupant needs.