Windows

The beams were part of the original structure of the home. Ceilings are quite tall—10 feet or higher.

Rather than adding a lot of big windows—a lot of glass runs counter to passive house principles of keeping the heat in—the design team carefully placed the vantage points to frame vignettes and bring the outside in.

High-level windows in the north gable, and on either side of the fireplace allow the sun to reach deep into the living room to be absorbed by the thermal mass of the polished concrete floor,

Beneath the postcard-like backdrop of La Concha mountain, a previously abandoned Spanish villa received a modernist revamp for a couple and their young child. Natural, earthy interiors connect the living spaces to the lush surroundings, with the light-filled kitchen opening directly onto an outdoor pergola and pool.

Smith knew he wanted to use plywood for the interior walls. "Plywood can look fantastic,

Emma and Martin found the couch at West Elm. "We sat on a bunch and this one was the most comfortable and we liked its simplicity,

"The house meets all the requirements for being a Greenbuilt Home,

The interiors were painted in Benjamin Moore's "Cloud White

“The owners were looking for a relaxed, welcoming environment. We suggested an interior atmosphere that is simultaneously cozy and airy. We went for a stripped down, almost purified aesthetic. Simplicity is luxury.” Interior designer Lexie Mork-Ulnes says.

The cozy living area features a refurbished Børge Mogensen chair and a Recover sofa from Bolia. The coffee table was sourced from Jotex.

The floor and the wall merge into one as concrete, wood, and subtle, warm tones create an integrated look. Customized furniture and built-in pieces throughout add to the minimalist vibe.

Inside, Pine walls and ceilings received a dark stain, as did Oak floors.

The original windows were replaced with new ones that would let in more light and views of the outdoors. Stuart kept the archway leading to the kitchen, and restored the wood-burning fireplace.