feldman architecture uses locally sourced timber for santa cruz surf house

overlooking the shoreline of santa cruz, feldman architecture‘s surf house is designed with a polished bohemian spirit. the project introduces a family home to the unassuming residential neighborhood — aware of the feel and scale of the surrounding structures. the clients were well-versed on the nuances of the site and dreamt of a home that fit naturally and sustainably into its beachy, eclectic context. the timber structure is sited as a windbreak. the rear yard and deck capitalize on ocean views, while the entry and front courtyard, tucked behind two separate structures — a customized surfboard storage unit and garage — sit where the sun shines most in the winter, acting as a warm, light-filled cloister all year round, protected from the coastal winds.

images © joe fletcher | @joefletcherphoto

designing its surf house, feldman architecture works together with evan shivley of arborica, a sawyer that reclaims and repurposes native californian timber. together, the team makes use of locally sourced lumber for the dwelling’s interior and exterior cladding. monterey cypress, a robust and resilient wood, is accustomed to the site’s coastal california climate and when left unfinished, weathers to a sophisticated grey. the wood therefore becomes a focal point of the home’s design. the exterior is clad with board and batten slats, setting up an exterior and interior palette present throughout the home. waste in the milling process and trunk use was minimized by holistically integrating every level of wood grade and their respective quantities into the design.

the public areas of feldman architecture’s surf house capitalize on an indoor/outdoor connection — seamlessly transitioning from the intimate front courtyard to the warm and open great room and kitchen, finally opening up onto the back patio overlooking the sea. large sweeping doors open to connect the living space to the spacious back deck, which is fit with an in-ground hot tub and outdoor kitchen suited for entertaining visiting family and friends.

upstairs, as the surf house transitions from public to private, the monterey cypress dissolves into plaster. this condition diversifies the palette and draws attention to carefully designed architectural details. thoughtfully placed windows weave surprising glimpses of blues and greens into the earth-toned interior finishes. the master bedroom features floor to ceiling glass walls facing the waves, opening onto a private balcony with views of surfers below.