Rockridge House

The Rockridge House is an extensive renovation which celebrates sloping topography and breathtaking westward water and island views. The project remains focused on maximizing flow and connectivity between spaces while maintaining significant existing elements and the overall layout of the house. Existing spaces were decluttered and simplified, allowing panoramic views to become the primary focus for each of the main living rooms. Many of the existing doors and walls were removed, allowing the interior to be filled with natural light and to open each space to the view.

Upon entering the house, a grand entry staircase divides the layout and leads down toward the backyard. This minimalist entry space is filled with natural light form a large skylight above. A thin metal guardrail follows the line of the stairs and blends in with the surrounding walls, keeping the attention on the descent toward the expansive rear yard view. A glimpse of the view out naturally pulls viewers forward through the space, with living spaces branching off this central circulation spine.

The kitchen and dining rooms are elevated above the living and family rooms, providing different vantage points throughout the house. Changes in level between rooms bring a dynamic feel to the spaces and results in taller ceilings in the living rooms. Each space flows into the next with separation being created by the thoughtful use of slatted screens and steps, creating a constant notion of revealing when moving through the house.

The Rockridge House emphasizes removing rather than adding; resulting in a decluttered, meditative space for the homeowners that also provides the versatility to entertain guests. The interior spaces complement and accentuate the natural aspects of the site rather than compete with them. The Rockridge House focuses on simplifying the interiors; using light tones and clean lines to emphasize the outdoors. Each window becomes a different lens for the outside world, facilitating a strong connection with the ever-changing view, light, and landscape.

Photography - Andrew Latreille