Construction Notes from John:

This amazing home has columns and arches trimmed in stone, with a concrete driveway into the porte-cochere. The concrete tile roof has solar attic fans and 3 decorative chimneystacks from the various fireplaces. The interior features faux-painted walls - with mural scenes depicted in the "his and her" adjoining offices.

As the General Contractor for this interesting home, the site presented certain challenges and opportunities. Because of its commanding view of the surrounding Santa Lucia Mountains, I suggested a floor plan that utilized the views, orientation and climate conditions, which vary quickly because of the proximity to the Pacific Ocean.

Deep overhangs of 3 feet, a large, deep patio for entertaining and a porte-cochere for owners and guests provide warmth and cover when the weather is foggy and chilly.

Three fireplaces make their various locations in the home cozy, and there is an intimate wine cellar with walls that are especially ventilated to maintain temperature and moisture control.

In the entry there is a steel spiral stair to a sunset view room with a 360° view of the mountains and the frequently spectacular sunsets.

The upper terrain of the site provided an oak covered knoll to hide two massive, 5,000-gallon water tanks. These not only provide exceptional, mountain spring quality water, they also flow, if required, to the fire sprinkler system that is throughout the house and garage.

Custom designed, fixed arched windows above all the windows provide a soft repetition of the building's columns and arches.

The 10-foot high ceilings and 8-foot high doors throughout the home give the interior spaces the scale that the large rooms require.