Sustainable and beautiful.  Built to last, energy efficient, eco-friendly.  The Levinson’s wanted their 70’s home fully remodeled to take advantage of the one of a kind SF bay views, to modernize the home with a classic but contemporary look, and to be totally energy efficient along with green material choices.   From time to time we are fortunate enough to work with a family who inspire us – clients with projects that tap into our creativity and challenge us to stretch our architectural skills.  This is the story of such a client and project.

The site has world-class views stretching from the San Rafael/Richmond bridge to Angle Island and on to San Francisco and the Golden Gate bridge.  It could easily have been a tear down.  It could have been a new home and any other homeowner would probably have made that choice.  But with the Levinson’s sincere interest in being sustainably minded – the decision was made to keep the original home and to remodel.  We kept the footprint, the majority of the structure, the rooflines, and kept rooms in the same places.  But the mid-century house received a whole home facelift.

Soft grey green colors were chosen to reflect the color of the bay beyond and warm golden tones used against the backdrop of the native dry summer grasses.  All wood products are FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council) from the exterior siding to the flooring, cabinetry and doors.  No VOC paints are adhesives were used.  New Fleetwood sliding doors have a special coastal finish, high UV and low E glazing and come with all stainless steel hardware for durability in a more harsh marine environment.  Over sized copper gutters handle rainwater catchment with rainwater harvested and stored in cisterns to supply year-round landscape irrigation.  Every aspect of this remodel was eco-friendly, energy efficient, and world class.

After sharing their beautiful home with family over the holidays – Frank called to thank the architectural team.  He said every family member loves this home and appreciate all of the attention to the beautiful details and craftsmanship.  Love of a home like this – make our work so worthwhile!