Incredible Rooflines

Gesner’s house for John Scantlin,1965, highlighting the structure of the single ridge beam, and its lateral rib-like beams, rising up and out toward the view. Photo by Juergen Nogai

White paint now covers the exterior walls of the Cooper Wave house, and the beach has shrunk over the decades since the house was built (1957–59), which has forced the current owners to construct new supports in the form of massive concrete caissons now visible below the deck. Despite the changes, the original concept of the three dynamic vaults, or “waves,” of the roofline still resonates. Photo by Juergen Nogai

The physical structure is integrated into the natural landscape, with a view of a permaculture vineyard in the background. All wine and produce served to visitors is grown on the estate, reflecting the Rough Luxe focus on provenance and authenticity.

Two housing models perch lightly in a field, both featuring gently curved, rainwater-catching butterfly roofloines.

The house reaches above the neighboring homes but remains architecturally united; its windows reference those of the house immediately next door. “The neighbors’ houses on either side vary in their setbacks, so we found a compromise that would work with both,” notes the architect. Photo courtesy Linebox Studio.

The winglike dips in the roofline situate and hold the house against the region’s brutal winds. As the outdoor chairs attest, lifestyles here pass easily between inside and out; a long hike and a good swim are always just steps away