Remotely accessed via a winding former stagecoach road from the quicksilver rush, the area affected by the 2019 Kincade Fire saw the destruction of the original off-grid house. Surviving concrete foundations and walls have been reinhabited. Enhanced construction assemblies, the concrete ground form, non-combustible materials, and sliding ember screens respond to the risk of repeat wildfire events. Largely closed on the exposed north side and open to the south and west Mayacamas Mountains views, the protective form respects the ridgeline, existing as a quiet presence in the wildland landscape. Portions of the angular footprint of the preexisting foundation project from the new rectangular form and build the sculptural light well, entry steps, porch, and garage. A new concrete chimney mass anchors the main floor, creating a focal point for the living spaces. Driven by the clients’ preference for future wheelchair accessibility, the entry ramp extends outward as an expressive form toward the west hillside. The concrete basin fosters a visual and poetic dialogue that briefly captures artesian well waterflow. The off-grid site utilities support a home that embraces passive survivability. An abundant connection to nature promotes healthy well-being, while the restorative landscape approach enhances biodiversity through a wildfire protective strategy.
An off the grid house with high sustainability goals and a simplicity and roughness that’s appropriate for the context. It’s a good example of a strong fire-rebuild. The retention and reuse of the original foundation creates interesting spaces, while its sloping roof and materials palette integrates nicely into the site.