AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS, LOS ANGELES – CITATION AWARD

Architect: Barton Myers Associates
Location: Montecito, California
Size: 3,860 sf
Program: Single Family Residence
Team: Norman J. Epstein, structural engineer; Isabelle Green Landscape Architects, landscape; AGME Engineers, mechanical & plumbing engineer; Smith Engineering Associates, electrical engineer; Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Inc, envelope consultant; Rios Clementi Hale Studios, interiors; Penfield & Smith, civil engineer; Grover Hollingsworth & Associates, geotechnical consultant; Contractor, Caputo Construction
Photography: Ciro Coelho Photography

The Montecito Residence is situated in the secluded hills of Santa Barbara. The site is in an environmentally sensitive habitat with majestic oak trees, dense vegetation and large boulders. It consists of a 3,360 sf main residence, 500 sf garage, a sun deck structure adjacent to a 50′ lap pool, and an existing guest house. The main residence is broken up in two wings: one includes the living and kitchen areas and the second includes the bedroom, bathrooms and library. The layout is largely influenced by the topography. Sited around the protected oaks and boulders, the building frames intimate courtyards and allows the rugged site to embrace it, while maximizing ocean vistas.

The building is constructed of exposed steel, glass, concrete and insulated metal panels. The Montecito Residence takes full advantage of the indoor-outdoor living made possible by California Coast’s mild climate. Designed specifically without air-conditioning, the house is cooled by cross-ventilation. Large operable sectional glass doors, sliding doors and windows can be opened and closed to quickly adjust to the climate conditions and the occupants’ comfort. In addition, the house’s radiant heat system is fed by solar collector panels. Other sustainable features include highly efficient boilers, photovoltaic panels and an Energy-Star rated “cool” roof.