Reclining on a steep canyon hillside, the Hillclimber's dynamic interior and exterior spaces capitalize on this potential liability by gently spiraling up the slope to embrace a small courtyard. The simple forms apparent from the exterior are reflected in the hierarchy of interior volumes: light-filled major spaces have angled ceiling planes that extend toward views, while the secondary rooms are capped by simple flat planes. The exteriors of the major volumes are sheathed in horizontal wood cladding and juxtaposed with smooth plaster elements housing the secondary spaces.
Materials remain simple yet modern throughout- concrete floors, dry stacked stone walls, sustainably harvested wood, and stainless steel. Still, there are many surprising moments- the deep purple wall in the dining room, the massive wood-and-stainless cantilevered vanity in the master bathroom.
Elevated above the house at the site's highest inhabited point to maximize exposure to the sun, the swimming pool is concealed in a massive louvered box of almost industrial presence. From above, at the pool deck, one has a clear view of the contrasting volumes spiraling down the site, and the simple obviousness of the site strategy is revealed.