REMODEL OF CASE STUDY HOUSE IN SANTA BARBARA, CA

MID-CENTURY MODERN HOME

Originally designed and built-in 1960 by locally acclaimed architect Noel D. Cooke AIA, the Mid-Century Modern Home is a part of the experimental architecture legacy known as the Case Study Houses. A 2006 remodel and addition honored the structure’s heritage while sensitively updating interiors and finishes.

We approached this project with modernist thinking, “less is more.” A considerable amount of program was added to the house by reconfiguring the lower level while maintaining the original footprint. A new staircase was added to connect the entry-level to the lower level.

Learn more about our Modern Residential Projects

The introduction of board-formed concrete, dry- stacked stone, clear wood finishes, and fine wood joinery help maintain a high level of material integrity, modernizing the palette while celebrating the original spirit of the home’s bold styling.

The redesign and total refinishing of the home was an opportunity to celebrate the materials and form of mid-century modern architecture, as well as to explore the feasibility of hillside living. The architects updated the original post-and-beam aesthetic with tongue-and-groove ceilings, recreated the entry and walkway, and carefully maintained the original art studio. The new additions of dry stacked stone and fine wood joinery maintain the original spirit of the home while new hardscape elements, modern appliances, and updated glazing systems combine to bring the function of the home up to current expectations. The design also includes custom-designed furniture pieces that complete this collaboration of client, artisan builder, and architect.

Lot Size	24,315 sf
Project Size	2,510 sf
Location	Santa Barbara, CA
Principal	Clay Aurell, AIA
Project Manager	Diana Costea
Design Team	Josh Blumer, AIA \| Karmen Aurell \| Diana Costea \| Schuyler Bartholomay \| Joel Herrera
General Contractor	Nathan Modesette - BOMO Design
Landscape Architect	David Johnson Landscaping \| CommonGround
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER	Taylor & Syfan
PHOTOGRAPHER	Ciro Coelho \| Jim Bartsch

INSPIRE | CREATE | IMPACT

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A woman stands at the end of a long linear wood deck of a mid century modern hillside home over looking the California coastline

MID CENTURY MODERN HOME

Modern Hillside Home of clad with dry stacked stone and ceramic architectural wall panel details

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A woman and her daughter play with a ball in front of a modern two story home.

VENICE BEACH HOUSE

Entrance of modern residential design with wood siding, nana wall sliding door, and creative design accessed by a simple wooden path along a lush drought tolerant landscape

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Contemporary home with clean modern lines and minimalist styling.

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Photo of outdoor and indoor living space with pool in front and beautiful entry

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close up of elevation of futuristic home

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Contemporary Residential Featured News Posts

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