Header: Joe Fletcher
Right in the heart of Northern California Wine Country, an idyllic barn is the captivating new addition to the landscape by esteemed San Francisco architectural firm Malcolm Davis Architecture (MDa). Known as the Wine Country Barn, the unique building is the result of a close collaboration between Mda and loyal clients who sought to enhance their weekend home.
A thoughtful brief
The journey began when the homeowners envisioned improvements to their communal living space for weekends with family and friends. Initially contemplating a large addition to the original house, their evolving desires led to the creation of an entirely separate entertainment barn and guest house addition. MDa’s architectural design drew inspiration from the region’s rustic barns while incorporating modern detailing to ensure that the new structure harmonises with its surroundings.
The seamless integration
In order to fully integrate the structure into the existing property and estate, MDa worked alongside the landscape design team, Lucas & Lucas, with the goal of knitting the building, which features a guest suite, covered parking, and an outdoor kitchen and living space, into the lush surroundings. The result is a design that unites the existing house and pool with the new barn, resulting in a cohesive wine country complex defined by exquisite landscaping and purposeful site lines.
MDa’s design strategy incorporated locally harvested redwood siding, paying homage to the region’s mill town history. A blend of timber, shapes, and volumes further speaks to the local vernacular and seamlessly fits within the picturesque environment.
Sustainability and efficiency
From a sustainability perspective, the team utilised timeless passive techniques that emphasise the use of natural elements for comfort and minimise mechanical and electrical interventions. This environmentally conscious approach ensures that the barn complements the natural climate of the region, contributing to energy efficiency. The interior design, meticulously curated by Grant Gibson Interior Design, also adhered to the concept of timelessness.
Loyal clients
The project represents the second collaboration between the design-forward homeowners and MDa, who previously designed their San Francisco residence. Contrasting the urban cityscape environment of their primary residence, the Wine Country Barn offers them a necessary reprieve where they can spend more time outdoors, basking in the region’s warmth and serene rural setting.
