VOLCANO, SIERRA FOOTHILLS

The classic farmhouse form of this gold rush era home can be described in a few words: a gable house wrapped by a porch.

The two shapes, gable and porch, can be described with hand gestures. The shape is simple and common, lodged in our shared memory and dreams. Its commonness confirms its comfortable familiarity and borrows from past associations with similar homes, with farms, porch swings.

The geometric shapes are simple, but they have gathered emotional weight. Because of their simplicity and despite their nostalgia, they remain practical, an effective shelter from sun and rain.

The snow outlines the simple roof forms of the Pattison Lake Residence pictured here during construction. Sited at the end of the road leading to the lake, the home seems familiar as if remembered, its deep porches, welcoming. The simplicity of the form allows easy recollection.  It’s practicality ensures its endurance.  One can easily imagine living here, because it is easy.

Principal and Owner of James Hill Architect specializing in residential architecture and interior design in San Francisco, California and the Pacific Northwest. We like bikes, cities, landscapes and most any kind of structure that supports a free spirit. While we remain fascinated, we are disinclined towards structures that inhibit or control. We take photos of what interests us and then figure out why.
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