Building a New Life in Carmel Highlands
Located in the prestigious Carmel Highlands, this home went through quite a transformation. Beginning as a full home remodel, it evolved into a “custom home new build.”
The just under 2,000 square foot home was in the perfect location surrounded by pristine scenery, but was in dire need of a renovation. A tremendous amount of vision and expertise was required to take this home from what it was to what could be. To start, we took the home nearly down to the foundation. Using the existing footprint, we created a complete redesign, increasing the square footage by building upwards, adding in a grand vaulted ceiling and the addition of a loft. One of our main objectives was to maximize the magnificent views for the family.
This family of four was downsizing from a 5,000 sq ft home in SoCal, so we needed to be cognizant of this as we created their new 2,760 sq ft. space. This was a welcomed downsize for the family and our aim was to design in plenty of seamless storage and design elements to help the home feel spacious. This included adding in many large windows and oversized doorways, the grand raised ceiling and open floor plan aesthetic. The family was surprised at how they did not even notice this decrease in space due to the efficiency of the design.
Rather than being isolated as it formerly was, the relocated kitchen, featuring a large island complemented by a natural stone wall, now leads into a formal dining and family room, creating a shared space that is truly the heart of the home.
Rich woods are found throughout the entire house, and an understated rustic charm is felt in elements such as the gracious chandeliers, trim, and staircase. Hand-hewn Douglas fir box beams, were sourced from local authentic recycled, reclaimed wood. Throughout the home, wood flooring creates warmth with tongue-and-groove pine custom stained at the clients’ request.
Our layout reconfiguration relocated the primary suite to the west side of the home to maximize views, featuring a den for relaxing and a spacious primary bath, appointed with spa elements like a waterfall shower and soaking tub.
From top to bottom, every detail was considered during the installation of the pool and putting green area. We used a custom PebbleTec pool finish, providing the ultimate mix of durability and style. Paired with a pool deck made with water-resistant bluestone, the swimming pool and surrounding lounge area were ready for sunny days filled with fun and summer evenings spent relaxing outside.
For a cohesive flow between the main house and the guest house we used the same finishes and interior materials, dark bronze aluminum windows, roofing materials, and beams to integrate the guest house with the main house seamlessly. Mystic Gray flagstone walkways were added to surround the guest house, main house, and swimming pool, deepening the look with a pleasing pattern.
