Saratoga Creek House

2. January 2012

Saratoga Creek House
2009
Saratoga, CA

Client
Withheld

Architect
WA Design
Berkeley, CA

Design Principal
David Stark Wilson, AIA

Project Architect
Chris Parlette, AIA

Project Team
David Stark Wilson
Chris Parlette
Tom Peebles
Frank Eyerly
Eric Campbell
Eoi Takagi

Structural Engineer
EndresWare

MEP/FP Engineer
Monterey Energy Group

Landscape Architect
WA Design

Lighting Designer
Artistic

Interior Designer
Client and David Mast

Contractor
WA Design

Construction Manager
Keith Williams

Custom metalwork
Helikson Design

Custom concrete
Concreteworks

Cement board siding
Swiss Pearl

Cabinet wood
Exotic Hardwoods

Site Area
2 acres

Building Area
7,000 sf

Photos and Drawings
WA Design

A series of roof vaults defines the various distinct yet interconnected volumes that comprise this large residence south of San Francisco. This distinction is increased by the use of various claddings -- concrete, stone, rainscreen systems -- towards breaking up the house into smaller parts and creating a variety of exterior and interior zones. Architect David Stark Wilson answered some question about the design of the house, for which they also acted as contractor.

The approach to the house

What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?

These clients were referred by friends who heard me give a talk on my work.

The pool and the guest house

Can you describe your design process for the building?

Initially we make many site visits to fully understand the views and possible neighbor issues. We include the clients in these visits and over time all recognize together a set of primary design criteria.

The master suite's closet enclosure

How does the completed building compare to the project as designed? Were there any dramatic changes between the two and/or lessons learned during construction?

We revisited each design detail many times on the interior of the home. Especially on the interior, this project involved a true collaborative process.

Site Plan

How does the building compare to other projects in your office, be it the same or other building types?

These days, in this economy, our work is characterized by projects with tighter budgets and the exploration of design approaches that will allow prefab and lower cost building methods.