Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the eastern outskirts of Truckee, California, in a serene rural setting, this home is perched on a ridge just below the historic Martis Peak fire outlook. To the east is views of the Sierra Crest mountain range, such as Donner Peak, Tinker Knob, and Castle Peak. To the west, it offers sweeping views of the town of Truckee and Donner Lake beyond.

The design of this home is a purposeful response to its natural surroundings, integrating the landscape and framing the expansive views.

Built for a family of three, the layout features the primary suite on one side and a daughter’s room on the other, both with direct access to the central exterior courtyard.

This project conscientiously acknowledges its location and the growing threat of wildfires, especially given that the owner is a retired fire chief. Materials and forms were selected not just for their aesthetics, but also for their functionality. The use of black corrugated walls and roofs offers uniformity, durability, and serves as a critical fire protection measure, providing a non-combustible shell in an area at high risk of wildfires.

An expansive concrete patio serves as a vital bridge between the interior spaces and serves as another non-combustible element of the home. The design incorporates simple shed roofs/prisms, each oriented away from the central courtyard and access points to offer protection against snow accumulation and watershed concerns.

This home was designed as a sanctuary that respects and coexists with its remarkable natural surroundings.