Vera Properties

Leaves in the Wind is designed and located to create an attractive appearance that is harmonious with the surrounding landscape and visually compatible with the surrounding areas.

Natural elements found at the site provided the starting point for the design process. The organic approach considers protection of scenic and visual qualities of coastal areas throughout the process. The natural design creates a topology that follows the descending lines of the mountain and conforms with the natural topography. The house has a “stepping” configuration that avoids massive grading of natural landforms and minimizes impacts to natural rock outcroppings to the extent feasible. The undulating components of the roof structure adopt a free form that respects the skyline dialogue with the existing topography and do not significantly break or intrude into the natural form of the skyline. The floor planes submerge into and then naturally reemerge in response to the surging natural topography. The design is integrated into the landscape and is subordinate to the character of its setting.

The design and siting have been changed based on input received during coordination meetings with Coastal Commission staff, including: 

• Moving away from the northern nose almost 40 feet to further minimize prominence and visibility
• Lowering the maximum height to rise no more than 22 feet above grade

Night light minimization features include the following:

• As a result of lowering the maximum height to rise no more than 22 feet above grade, the residence lower level almost disappears from sight. The west side of the lower level becomes a basement. The artificial light coming out from the lower level is substantially reduced.
• The 40 feet shift away from the northern nose is crucial for minimizing visual impacts. The house is now optimally positioned to reduce line of sight and minimize its prominence, which dramatically diminishes lighting impacts and protects public views.
• Landscape elements will be specifically designed to serve as screens to substantially reduce artificial light at night. Landscape screening elements will include existing trees, natural rock formations, new trees, and vegetation.
• Existing rocks will be untouched and will be incorporated into the design to serve as natural filters to further blend into the landscape and reduce artificial light impacts.
• Shades will be added to all windows to minimize lighting impact.
• Exterior light shields, low watt exterior blubs, and other exterior measures will further minimize artificial light and help protect public view at nighttime.

These visual considerations, natural site elements, earth tone materials, and unique native landscaping approach, create a visually compatible design that embraces the character of the surrounding area and protect public views.

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