Nestled on a boulder filled hilltop overlooking Elfin Forest, the curved floor plan of the Barker Residence takes advantage of the site’s diverse views, including views of the Coronado Islands and the Escondido water shed. The natural landscape at the center of the hilltop was preserved as a beautiful natural garden that one passes through to reach the house entry. The siting of the house around this garden and the use of stone masonry retaining walls make the home appear to be growing out of the site. This is particularly true from the central garden where the view of the home’s arched roof plane and the two-wing layout of the house provide the subtle illusion of a bird resting on the hilltop. The integration of the architecture with the site is complimented by the owners’ careful selection of natural materials and earthen colors in the interior spaces.

The owners, a married couple who both volunteer with the local fire department, wanted the home designed to withstand the next fire that passes through. For this reason the walls of the home were built using Insulated Concrete Form blocks which have a 4-hour fire rating and super thermal and acoustical insulating qualities. Passive solar design through the home’s layout and materials, the integration of photovoltaic panels, and a geothermal ground source heat pump enable the Barker Residence to achieve net-zero energy status.