Architect Craig Steely designed an
undulating, sky ward-facing house in the
heart of Silicon Valley
Looking Up
W R I T T E N B Y K A R I N E M O N I É
L
iving and working between northern California and
Hawaii, Craig Steely's design approach is imbued with
two very different natural environments. Also influenced
by the classic modernist tradition, the architect creates
projects with crisp lines that are always connected, in one way
or another, to nature.
Located in the suburban city of Atherton, near Stanford
University in California, this house is one example of Steely's
philosophy and creativity. His main challenge was making the
most of the long and narrow lot, which only provides views of the
back of neighboring houses. e owner's request, however, was a
home where she could live outdoors as much as possible to enjoy
the temperate climate year-round, while also maintaining some
privacy. In order to achieve this, the architect found an inventive
solution: He positioned the enclosed 2,900-square-foot home
(plus 3,000 square feet including the courtyards) toward the sky
and the beautiful tree canopy. "Focusing on this view 'up' rather
than horizontally 'out,' we created a seemingly roofless house
that surrounds the living spaces by huge, outdoor courtyards that
direct the view up," says Steely. One of the unique elements of
this project—a continuous curving wooden wall—shields the
building from its neighboring built environment, and creates a
refuge for the inhabitants. "It fully encloses the house, blocking
out the less desirable views, focusing on the more meaningful
views and creating interest as the sunlight and shadows move
through the day along its surfaces," explains the architect.
Inside, double-height ceilings and a seamless connection to the
exterior—thanks to retractable sliding glass doors—emphasize
the open plan of the main living area. e glass doors fully open
to an outdoor courtyard. Steely and landscape architect Elias
Gonzalez worked closely to design the exterior areas, introducing
trees and plants that were important parts of the whole project.
Materials such as travertine and wood create a neutral yet warm
backdrop where a few elements, including some pieces of art and
furniture, add pops of color. Every room is flooded with natural
light, and every corner offers a different perspective.
"Unlike its neighbors, this house is not fenced off at its street
perimeter," Steely notes. "A meadow of native grasses flows from
the sidewalk with existing oaks, redwoods and newly planted birch
trees." Fascinated by the relationship between architecture and
nature—which can be either one of integration or separation—
Steely focuses on the essentials in his work, reflecting the beauty
of simplicity in every project. craigsteely.com
