








This home is built to withstand the seismic and
hurricane conditions prevalent along this coastline
and the detailing reflects the masonry building
traditions of the area.

This home is built to withstand the seismic and
hurricane conditions prevalent along this coastline
and the detailing reflects the masonry building
traditions of the area.
Interiors are finished with premium woods including cypress, pecan and oak, much of which was harvested from and milled on the ranch property.
A house of solid masonry, married to the bluff, was softened with the incorporation of hand-carved antique wood dredged from the bottom of forgotten swamps and ancient stone honed from the extinct quarries of antiquity.
Inspired by a dovecote in Northern France, the library balances its lofty timber frame, iron chandelier and expansive windows with the warmth of smaller-scaled oak bookshelves and paneling.
Within this more natural landscape, the lower terrace’s open-air pavilion focuses on the pool and fountains, overlooking a creek and rustic gardens.
The principal living spaces align along the main axis connecting the entry, Library, Living Room, Kitchen and Breakfast though the cut stone wainscot, timber ceilings, and oak paneled and plaster wall.
Simple wood elements of railing windows and doors were expressed in contrast into the pure white mass.
Architectural elements such as the buttresses of the piano nobile, not only block the intense South Florida sun, but radiate light back into the space, illuminating the materials within.
Building to the street on two sides creates a “Gateway” from the sea to the town.
Using large native stone to nestle the structure in along glacial boulders, the lodge nestles into the slope, maintaining a low and sleek massing within its wooded environment
Overlooking the grassy plain of the Colorado River, River Ranch anchors a glen of ancient sycamores.
Elements such as a central light monitor were used to introduce natural light to the interiors, while also doubling as a ventilation chimney allowing air movement to augment natural cooling.
Coastal buildings were a product of their environment and were all reflective of the climate, staying cool with tall triple-hung windows, high ceilings, cross ventilation and sleeping porches, all designed to take advantage of cooling sea breezes.
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.