The Courtyard Residence

On the edge of Rancho Santa Fe, California, the 3,100 SF design encompasses a central courtyard and preserves the natural contours of the site. The layout integrates bridge elements connecting rooms and frames stunning views, creating a connection to the surrounding nature. Outdoor patios incorporated into the floor plan further encourage this connection to outdoor living.

Our clients are big fans the late architect Norm Applebaum and of early modern design principles including low sloped clay tile roofs, clay tile floors, and clerestory windows. Therefore, the Courtyard Residence draws from these elements as well as traditional Spanish courtyard homes. Clerestory windows contribute to the passive ventilation to keep the home cool in the warm months. In a sunny location like Rancho Santa Fe, the installed solar panels are especially helpful in generating the electricity of the residence.

Built with insulated composite concrete form (ICCF), its insulation and fire resistive qualities far exceed those of a structure built with wood framing. The thermal mass of clay floors with its high density levels absorb heat, store it, and release it in a slower stable fashion than other conventional building materials, smoothing out energy usage to moderate the home’s temperature and lowering energy costs by keeping the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the cooler months. The home integrates other natural materials throughout including beautiful earthen plaster interiors by Simple Construct and exposed wood ceilings.