In addition to shoring up the existing structure with flood proofing and seismic upgrades, Richardson reorganized the top floor into a 1,000-square-foot residence that is wrapped head-to-toe in wood. The flooring is white stained oak.
The Sonoma County home of Lars Richardson and Laila Carlsen is the result of a long-running collaboration with architect Casper Mork-Ulnes. A 713-square-foot indoor-outdoor Shotcrete dining pavilion dubbed the Amoeba provides a loose counterpoint to the more rigid barn structure behind it.
Original oak beams, revealed as part of the renovation, stretch across the interior of the renovated 1784 structure.
A natural rock face supports the cantilevered addition from below, creating a fortress-like structure that sits lightly within the existing landscape. Neutral colors keep the home from standing out, while the glass reflects surrounding flora.
The aluminum pipe light fixture and white oak dining room table—made from the original barn’s horse stalls—were both DIY projects completed by one of the homeowners and their friend, respectively. A design from The Rug Company, made from patches of old rugs, sits under the table.
From red painted cedar siding to no-fuss structural elements, Northworks’ solution reaches a happy medium between the classic barn look and a weekend retreat. “The best thing about this house,” explains one resident, “is that when it’s just the four of us, it feels cozy. But even when we’re hosting 25 people, it never feels crowded.”
