Waterfall Residence in Carmel Valley

Architect: Andrew Goodwin Designs

This spectacular home took shape on a sloping lot that would have discouraged most architects, engineers, and even potential occupants. But architect Andrew Goodwin worked with the client to come up with a brilliant solution that makes the most of this oak-studded spot in Carmel Valley. By elevating the home on a raised foundation above the tree canopy, it gains uninterrupted views of the valley below, eliminates the need for destructive grading, and provides opportunities for passive heating and cooling.

Embracing sustainability is one of the main focuses of the house. It has the capacity to operate as a fully functional net-zero entity: Solar panels provide most of the electrical power, concrete floors maintain a comfortable interior climate, an angular rear wall allows for the collection of rainwater runoff (and inspired the home to be named Waterfall Residence).

This 2,330-square-foot, three-bedroom house relies on natural light to illuminate the interior with floor-toceiling windows. A 1,700-square-foot deck surrounds the house and adds even more engagement with the natural surroundings. The concrete floor helps capture the sun’s heat during the winter, and the raised floor allows cool air to be caught under the home during the night. This then gently comes through the floor insulation and structural steel to radiate cool temperatures.

Directing the water flow from the roof to storage tanks under the structure of the home allows for supportive fire suppression and landscape irrigation. It is also noteworthy to mention the use of high recycled-content steel, renewable materials, and natural ventilation and lighting used for this project. The Waterfall Residence is resiliently designed to meet the challenges of “designing sustainably”— and it does it well.