Marden Residence - Shingle Springs, CA

Marden Residence – Shingle Springs, CA

The clients, construction professionals, purchased a 40-acre horse ranch in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. The existing living quarters were suitable for guests, they elected to build their dream house on the hill overlooking the ranch, valley and oak forest view beyond. Working with clients who have built hundreds of custom homes, over a 30-year career, is easy because they know what they want and need. The owner, a skilled carpenter, wanted a house using fine wood framing and finishes, and built by himself.

The house, spread along the brow of the crest of the hill, takes advantage of the commanding view from all the main living and sleeping areas. The entry, guest rooms, exercise room and garage wrap around a massive valley oak needing to be protected. The house is designed to create drama from first view below and climbing the curving driveway. When arriving at the trellised entry porch one is first drawn into the vaulted entry, then into the soaring high vaulted great room. Large hand-built trusses, a large fieldstone fireplace and views to the vista beyond create a baronial ambiance. A massive spreading valley oak dominates the view to the enclosed courtyard view on the opposite end of the great room.  It is a pleasure to watch the careful construction of this special home, the owner sends update photos weekly, making the architect smile