The Garrett Residence sits on top of a wooded hill near Escondido complete with commanding views of Mt. Palomar to the north and San Diego County to the South. The owners wanted to the building to take advantage of these views while employing passive solar design to maximize the use of the sun. Solar panels (photovoltaic and thermal) rest on top of the garage. A strong central axis defines the main gathering space, and the soaring ceiling is supported by the trunk of an 18” diameter eucalyptus tree. A large, continuous skylight follows the axis and floods the great room and adjacent areas with light. A series of strategically placed retractable doors allow prevailing winds to cool the house during the hot summer season. Old corrugated metal was used to define the kitchen area from the surrounding rooms.