Studio William Hefner’s philosophy is grounded in an appreciation for the fine craft of building and a harmonious use of natural forms and materials. This perspective is apparent in a geometrically-angled estate overlooking the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, California. Designed by William Hefner, the modernist residence features two wood-clad volumes linked by a glass bridge. Hefner shares his design inspiration and discusses how the thoughtful use of organic elements contributes to an aesthetic of warmth and sophistication.
Mesmerizing ocean scenery influenced many of Hefner’s design decisions, he notes. “From day one, all our efforts focused on maximizing the views from the property. The angle of the house, the layout of the principal rooms and the position of the pool all capitalize on the view. That side of the house is almost entirely made up of glass, and all but two of the secondary bedrooms are positioned to take advantage of that as well.” Motorized glass doors opening to wraparound balconies on the second story underscore the home’s prevailing connection to the outdoors.
Window walls provide an abundance of natural light throughout the day, and Hefner also included well-placed lighting sources for brightness after sunset. “Interior lighting, aside from surface-mounted fixtures, is done in such a way that spaces are spotlighted so as to not impede the field of vision.”
The architecture wholly embraces open living with the dynamic interplay between inside and out, Hefner explains. “There’s a covered pergola off the kitchen for shaded and heated dining, both day and night. Recessed seating arranged around the pool and pocket sliding doors make certain portions of the house truly indoor/outdoor.”
High ceilings, white walls, concrete floors and iron staircase railings all create a uniquely modernist home. Hefner’s favorite design element? “The two-story atrium space that connects the two wings of the house with a bridge that ties to the second-floor bedrooms.” The home embraces the warmth of wood in its design, right from the first glimpse. “We used a lot of cedar for wall cladding and decking on the exterior,” Hefner shares. “A sense of craft is important to us as a design element, and the home reflects that.”
This or That?
Living Environment: minimalist or maximalist? Minimalist. Anything else is too distracting.
Drink Menu: sunrise coffee or sunset drink? Sunset drink. I always appreciate a great sunset.
Vacation Plans: island or mainland? That is tough. This next time around, I’m doing an island trip, but I so appreciate a mainland trip too.
Lines of Communication: call or text? I think call, because it conveys nuances that don’t come through over text.
Design: Erick Garcia, Maison Trouvaille
Construction: Wardell Builders
Photography by Ye Rin Mok.
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