Rockefeller Kempel Architects


The story of this design began with two objects the owners found on the beach and three inspirational words: modern, coastal, and sanctuary.

Modern - form: a modern interpretation of a beach shack with a pitched roof and a simplified expression of punched openings.

Coastal - material: a soft palette of light natural stone and wood reflecting the smooth gray beach stone and aged driftwood.

Sanctuary - daylight, flow, and scale: a living environment with plentiful natural daylight and open, connected, differentiated spaces. A place sensitive to the human scale and thoughtfully considered from the public view using architectural and landscape design moves.

Perched on a hilltop in a coastal neighborhood, this residence reflects its owner's appreciation for clean lines, visual simplicity, and quiet surprises.

The family is engaged with the community and entertains. Creating a strong sense of inside-out living and taking full advantage of the property was essential.

In addition to abundant daylighting and passive cooling, the house uses a sizable geothermal system and PV array to greatly minimize its environmental impact.

This is a place for a family to thrive, a sanctuary to feel safe and connected with each other and their natural surroundings, a “beach” feeling while at home.