amnesia house: garde hvalse crafts a fire-resistant retreat in california's napa valley
Briefly

amnesia house: garde hvalse crafts a fire-resistant retreat in california's napa valley
"occupies a narrow ledge within a rugged landscape shaped by steep slopes and under the constant risk of wildfires. The house reads as a low, horizontal presence aligned east to west. Two parallel gabled volumes sit lightly on the site, joined by a fully glazed vestibule that frames views across the valley. Large openings on both facades draw daylight deep into the plan, while deep roof overhangs and operable louvres temper sun and shade through the day."
"The plan spreads laterally, encouraging movement between interior rooms, terraces, and the pool without hierarchy. The entrance sequence reverses expectations, guiding visitors past the water toward the living spaces. Site placement follows the terrain rather than reshaping it. Limited access and steep topography informed a careful siting strategy that preserves existing drainage patterns and vegetation. By settling the structure onto a narrow shelf, the design maintains geological features while meeting slope restrictions. This way, the landscape remains visually continuous around the building."
Amnesia House is a single-story residence sited on a narrow ledge within a 19-acre parcel of Napa Valley, responding to steep slopes and wildfire risk. The plan extends laterally with two parallel gabled volumes joined by a fully glazed vestibule, creating a low horizontal presence aligned east–west. Large openings and deep roof overhangs, plus operable louvres, draw daylight while tempering sun and shade. Movement between interior rooms, terraces, and pool is encouraged without hierarchy, and the entrance sequence guides visitors past water toward living spaces. Site placement follows terrain, preserving drainage, vegetation, and geological continuity. Oak millwork runs through bedrooms, offices, closets, and shared spaces, establishing a consistent tactile presence.
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