Photo of a large traditional shade backyard brick landscaping in Tampa.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

a board formed concrete wall sets a backdrop behind a steel cut stringer carrying open wood treads with skylights above
Staircase - large modern wooden straight open staircase idea in Vancouver

Home office - scandinavian built-in desk carpeted and exposed beam home office idea in Salt Lake City

Inspiration for an asian patio remodel in Kyoto

Staircase - small modern wooden u-shaped dark wood floor staircase idea in Santa Barbara with gray walls and wooden risers

A breathtaking hilltop view of the Pacific was the reference point for this dramatic landscape transformation. The Campion Walker team utilized succulents, water falls, textured concrete and steel to integrate the house and the raw untouched land surrounding it.

Garage - traditional garage idea

Close up view of reclaimed oak used on office wall.
Mid-sized mountain style freestanding desk dark wood floor study room photo in San Francisco with brown walls and no fireplace

Hans Doellgast

Powder room floor tile with custom tile vent
Inspiration for a small contemporary bathroom remodel in Toronto

Bill Gregory
Home design - small industrial home design idea

Staircase - country staircase idea

Detail of mesh screen.
Example of an eclectic closet design in Sacramento

Tall window treatment design accentuates the height of the center window because of the angled ceiling.

Bathroom - bathroom idea in Seattle

Example of a trendy staircase design in Houston