Approached through an aspen glade along a mountain meadow, one enters an intimate gravel motor court embraced by the poured in place concrete walls of the house.
Once within, guests are greeted by a warm wood foyer that is softly illuminated from the light monitor above
The warm polished-concrete walls are balanced with plaster panels to create a natural gallery for the owner’s extensive art collection.
The various connected buildings fit harmoniously within the untouched natural beauty of the site.
Light fixtures, mechanical grilles and hardware were custom designed following the character
of the existing home.
The upper level accommodates public spaces such as the principal room, music room, kitchen and dining, as well as an outdoor dining loggia; all are focused on the breathtaking views.
Improved thermal efficiency was achieved through the use of aerated autoclave concrete block.
The organization of the compound acts as a
foil to the surrounding wilderness.
This main court features the soothing sounds of the courtyard fountain and offers comfort through the intimate scale of the gathering space.
Natural plaster and waxed antique wood lend a natural warmth to interior spaces.
The clean German aesthetic works well for the compartmentalized interiors: every function has its place in the modest house.
The old world charm and warmth once found in the original structure is recreated throughout.
The Federal and early American Palladian influences on proportion, massing and composition were carefully studied and interpreted, with specific attention given to the unique brick detailing in the rubbed brick jack arches, quoining, and window surrounds, and the ornately applied trim.
Key architectural features include built-in benches with painted beadboard backing, deep-set Roman arches, and an arcade supported by classical columns in the Scamozzi variation of the Ionic order.
Two enclosed courtyards within provide opportunities for quiet prayer and reflection. The central academic wing houses the Rector and administrative offices and entry to the Chapel on the ground floor, with the Seminarian Great Room, Library, and Faculty Lounge sitting above.
Significant programmatic elements include sleeping quarters for 85 girls plus a house director’s suite, a commercial kitchen with dining room seating up to 200 and a chapter room seating up to 350.
As the centerpiece of the community, the clubhouse at Escondido is designed to rival the elegance and comfort of even the finest PGA Tour clubs.
The east wing of the grill, known as La Hacienda, houses, an indoor golf hitting bay. Located at the 1st tee and driving range, the grill provides a state of the art Golf Academy, bistro dining, and an entertainment venue on the north side of Pecan Creek.
