San Francisco-based Feldman Architecture recently completed The Sanctuary, a residence in Palo Alto designed for empty-nesters. The property’s close proximity to downtown Palo Alto was a major deciding factor for the owners to purchase the lot, along with its surrounding overgrown garden.
The resulting house is situated behind the large heritage oak tree with a canopy that stretches across the entire front yard.
To reach the entrance, guests must pass under the tree’s canopy and wind through a series of courtyards and gardens.
The structure – even the driveway – floats on piers in order to highlight the surrounding trees while simultaneously protecting their roots. The floor plate extends beyond the home itself, turning into balconies that create indoor/outdoor flow and allow the home to float above ground.
The second story apartment is designed to rent out, which supports the owners’ belief in contributing to developing a higher density in the urban setting.
Diffused natural light flows into the space from sunrise to sunset through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Every interior area is paired with its own landscape moment to further connect the home with nature and highlight the serenity of the overgrown garden.
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