Big Sur

"Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just relaxing with family and friends, this space is perfect for enjoying the Southern California lifestyle,

Solomon Troupe Architects designed this 430-square-foot backyard bedroom suite for the owners to retreat to when their family comes to visit.

The estate offers multiple covered outdoor spaces for casual entertaining. Both the Greenhouse and Conference Center are located just a short walk away.

The ceiling drops down significantly over the built-in bench in the living area to create a cozy nook. “Like the kitchen, it’s a space within a space,” Thomas says. The wooden boards are flush with the window frame, allowing the sun to wash down the wall.

The wood planks run vertically on the walls to echo the direction that trees grow, while the board-formed concrete fireplace wall runs horizontally because that is how one pours the concrete. “It’s another play of contrasts,” Thomas points out. He bought the net from a local fisherman.

The large windows in front of the dining table can be completely opened up to nature, and the granite

The passage that leads to the bedrooms doubles as a library, with large bookshelves and a reading window.

The open-plan living area comprises an open plan kitchen, dining area, lounge, fireplace and an overlooking study. The stacking doors in the living area disappear into wall pockets leaving the space unhindered of glass, full open to the surrounding nature

Off-Grid Guesthouse by Anacapa Architecture

Wild Lilac is set on the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, far removed from the glitz of Los Angeles. LaHabra Santa Barbara Mission Finish stucco was used for the exterior to protect the home from strong sun.

A new floor plan opened up the home taking advantage of both the natural lighting and cross-ventilation—minimizing the need for electricity and air-conditioning.