Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California, Surf House exudes a refined bohemian charm, perfectly positioned near one of California’s premier surf breaks. The homeowners turned to Feldman Architecture to craft a family residence in a modest neighborhood, fully aware of the character and dimensions of the nearby buildings.
With a deep understanding of the site’s unique features, they envisioned a home that would seamlessly blend into its vibrant, coastal environment while prioritizing sustainability. Given the constraints of a 100-year geological setback and the regulations of the California Coastal Commission, the design aimed to honor both the natural landscape and the local community.
Strategically placed to act as a windbreak, the home’s rear yard and deck offer stunning ocean vistas, while the entryway and front courtyard—nestled behind two distinct structures, a custom surfboard storage unit and a garage—soak up the winter sun, creating a cozy, light-filled retreat that remains sheltered from coastal breezes year-round.
To enhance the project, Feldman Architecture collaborated with Evan Shivley of Arborica, a sawyer dedicated to reclaiming and repurposing native Californian timber, ensuring the use of locally sourced materials for both the interior and exterior finishes. The choice of Monterey Cypress, a strong and resilient wood, is particularly suited to the coastal California climate; when left untreated, it gracefully ages to a sophisticated grey, becoming a striking element of the home’s aesthetic.
The exterior features board and batten slats, establishing a cohesive design language that flows throughout the residence. The project also prioritized sustainability by minimizing waste during the milling process, thoughtfully integrating various wood grades and quantities into the overall design.
1Surf House’s communal areas beautifully blend the indoors with the outdoors, flowing effortlessly from the cozy front courtyard into the inviting great room and kitchen, and finally extending to the back patio that gazes out over the ocean. Expansive sliding doors create a seamless connection between the living area and the generous back deck, which boasts an in-ground hot tub and an outdoor kitchen, ideal for hosting family and friends.
As you ascend to the upper level, the home transitions from shared spaces to private retreats, where Monterey Cypress gracefully melds into plaster, enriching the color scheme and highlighting exquisite architectural features. Strategically positioned windows offer delightful peeks of vibrant blues and greens against the warm earth tones of the interior.
The master suite is a stunning highlight, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls that face the crashing waves, leading out to a secluded balcony with breathtaking views of surfers riding the swells.
With interiors crafted by Commune Design and landscaping by Ground Studio, Surf House strikes a harmonious balance between sophisticated design and a laid-back Californian vibe, creating an enchanting atmosphere in an already extraordinary location.