Barkentine House

Nestled on a hillside overlooking Abalone Cove in Rancho Palos Verdes is a modernist residence, originally built in 1964 by architect Foster Rhodes Jackson—a protege of Frank Lloyd Wright. The project brief was to sensitively bring the home into the 21st century with a complete renovation and addition while preserving its architectural language and showcasing the home’s incredible hillside perch overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

A challenge was to expand the homes size to meet the clients program without increasing the homes footprint on the steep hillside, as well as dealing with low ceiling heights within the existing roof plate.

The original cubist form provides the framework for the project, which consists of strategic interior and exterior interventions. Additional square footage was discretely added without changing the scale of the home. The kitchen was expanded and a dining area added by filling in an underutilized rear patio. An existing crawl space was dug out and converted into habitable space, expanding the lower level living quarters. The previously compartmentalized upper level was opened up, maximizing the views of the Pacific.

Constrained by zoning height limitations, the existing roof plate is punctured with a series of oversized skylight wells, which add volume and natural light throughout—they also act as quasi thermal chimneys, helping to passively cool the home.

New deck areas and a pool are folded into the entry sequence, creating a courtyard-like space that integrates into the hillside. Landscaping with native and regionally appropriate plants tie the home together with the surrounding natural context.

The original material palette was sustained, yet updated with subtle detail elevating the minimal exterior form.

Photo voltaic panels installed on the roofs paired with power-wall battery storage provide clean energy.

Photography: Joe Fletcher