Stanford Terrace
Mid-century modern design meets Korean tradition

Tucked into its sylvan setting, this reconstructed residence unfolds as a series of rooms gathered beneath a floating butterfly roof. Designed for a professor emeritus at Stanford University and his wife, the empty nesters sought a home that honored their Korean heritage while embracing a distinctly California lifestyle. We responded with a full renovation, crafted around casual indoor-outdoor living.

Due to expansive clay soils, the most cost-effective solution was to take the house down to its foundation and reconstruct it. Fortunately, the original footprint was preserved. Tthe rear nestles into the hillside while the front opens to sweeping valley views.

The design references Hanok, a traditional Korean home design, which is notably serene with an earthy ambience, open plans, and natural materials. Cedar and black metal harmonize with the surrounding mature oaks, while the low-slung, horizontal form takes advantage of the privacy afforded by the trees. A sunken hyeon gwan welcomes guests into a south-facing great room modeled after a traditional grand hall. Walls of sliding glass dissolve boundaries to front and rear terraces, while the butterfly roof — echoing the upturned curve of Hanok eaves — floats above. Deep overhangs temper summer sun whereas winter light penetrates deep within.

Inside, oak floors and timber detailing create warmth. In the great room, an alcoved niche showcases the owners’ treasured collection of porcelain objet d’ arts. Opposite, a Snaidero kitchen with black-honed quartz countertops, and a tiered-island that offers casual seating, opens to a shaded terrace for al fresco dining. Contrasting white upper cabinets reflect light, and appear like porcelain. 

Every room has direct access to the outdoors, including the primary suite which features tree views and a soaking tub bathed in sunlight. 

A simple material palette, focused on long-lasting, sustainable materials of cedar siding, board-formed concrete, and metal, were chosen for their beauty, recyclability, and sustainability.