Calm in Calistoga

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An empty nester couple lean on Amy A. Alper and Arterra Landscape Architects to build their forever home in Napa

In the entry, the Heston console is by RH Heston, the Marlow mirror is also from RH. Photos by Adam Potts.

“Working with the timeless elements of architecture—space, light, texture, rhythm, proportion and clarity of detail—our work is responsive to the unique desires of each client and the unique opportunities presented by each property,” says architect Amy A. Alper about how she and her team approach each project. When hired to design a new home for an empty nester couple living in the East Bay, they were endlessly inspired by the surrounding natural landscape, vineyards, and woodland views in Napa County where the property is located. “I consider and balance a multitude of factors, including practical design and sustainable strategies for energy conservation and fire safety. All refine the key concepts that guide the design from start to finish,” she notes.

In the living room, the sofa is from Della Robbia, the lounge chair is by Bensen and the Thaddeus coffee table is by RH.
Photos by Adam Potts.

The main goal was to convert the existing residence that was suitable for a weekend stay, into a larger home where couple could live full-time and enjoy as much outdoor living as possible. “The design developed from the concept of contrast and connection,” Alper recalls. “The original structure would remain traditional, while the new would embrace a modern outlook, focusing on light, volume, and connection to views through large, glazed openings.” They added two additions onto the original structure that house a new foyer, dining area, expanded kitchen, office and living areas. Through the continuous use of stone, metal and board and batten siding the home has a classic wine-country feel with modern edge.

In the kitchen, the Bess Counter stools are by Calligaris and the Machinist Cloche pendant lights are by RH. Photos by Adam Potts.
The dining room features a custom table designed by KCC Modern in Berkeley, the chairs are by Calligaris. Photos by Adam Potts.

They worked Total Concepts to build the thoughtful additions, Arterra Landscape Architects to enhance the outdoor experience and Rochelle Silberman Design on the interior furnishings and finishes. “The homeowners thought of the renovation and the landscape’s development as a metaphor for a well-lived life,” says Gretchen Whittier, partner at Arterra. “One foot in front of the other, and the house, landscape, and life unfold as time goes by. They also wanted to develop the steep hillside in ways that extended usable space for their family and friends.”

The sky light-lit office features custom Rift Oak millwork, a fireplace by Ortal and a desk by Woodtech. Photos by Adam Potts.

Most of the architectural direction took cues from the astounding views of the surrounding Jericho Valley. The challenge was ensuring each room connected to the landscape while designing on the steep site. “With sweeping valley views one side, the peak of St. Helena behind us, a seasonal creek on the side and vineyards all around, we added more ancient olive trees to accentuate the olive grove and mixed in drought-tolerant grasses, lavender, and flowering perennials,” says Whittier. “The design is classic wine country Mediterranean-style.”

The primary bedroom features a storybook window that is framed by custom millwork in Rift Oak.
The custom bed and end tables are by RMS Cabinetry. Photos by Adam Potts.
The vanity and tub are covered in Neolith’s Calacatta Silk, the floor tile is from All Natural Stone. The faucets are from Graff’s Phase Series. Photos by Adam Potts.

The office space (and occasional wine tasting room) is Alper’s favorite in part because it’s the first room seen within the modern addition and marks a clear contrast between old and new. “The high-volume space stands out with its rift oak lined walls and staggered shelving. Skylights bounce light throughout the space,” Alper notes. “On the other side is a sliding glass wall opening to the outdoor living room and panoramic views over the valley. The see-through fireplace opposite the desk sets up an axial view through the primary bedroom and then through a large picture window to the hills beyond. In the spirit of designing for views, a second favorite feature is the corner glazed window surrounding the tub in the primary bathroom. With no need for window coverings, it provides the ultimate spa-like experience.”

Photos by Adam Potts.
“The client wanted a 50′ lap pool that they could use year-round which meant it needed to be sited in a prominent spot,” says Gretchen Whittier of Arterra. Photos by Adam Potts.

When asked how the client feels about their new home, Whittier shared, “Honestly, and I quote the homeowners, “Who knew?!” They told us that “No amount of long-term strategic planning could have foreseen what the home and property have become.” They travel often and as soon as the gate swings open and they see their landscape open up in front of them, they know they are home.”