Blinds

The architects replaced the solid walls with glass for porosity, and exposed a steel structural column. The main entry is to the left of the stairs. A walnut slat wall lines the staircase, with the slats plunging down to the lower level for definition and to ensure light could flow.

A walnut slat wall creates a protected nook for an office, in what used to be dead space. The white built-ins around the television are designed to “fade into the background,” says Amornvivat, and the team utilized custom open and closed storage throughout. “We have to get the right mix between the two to make the project sing,” says Amornvivat.

A cedar-clad ceiling emphasizes the dramatic volumes of the combined living spaces, and the windows bring in the “dappled light” from the trees, says Rogers. The new plan makes entertaining much easier for the couple, with easy flow from the interiors to the roof deck and yard.

Another view of how the white oak stairs wrap around to become the bench. Rogers wanted the simple interior material palette to both celebrate and gently contrast with the site’s features, becoming a backdrop for the “bark on the trees and the texture on the boulders.”

Custom oak storage sets the tone for the house, with the shoes stored behind the slatted door. A large window creates connection between the exterior landing and the interior foyer, as does the continuous slate flooring.

The new foyer is designed after a Japanese Genkan, and ensures the entry is clearly delineated from the rest of the house. The wood of the bottom stair forms the bench for sitting and removing shoes.