From the sidewalk on Northfield, one is taken by the corrugated aluminum roof, the rustic trough water feature and the pop-color of the exterior stucco. Landscape architect Randy Thueme expertly designed an effective combination of California-native plantings that surround the site. The seamlessness with which the residential property blends into the natural setting is noticeable.

While Jim may lead a very corporate life by day, travel to the Sierras and Hawaii has always been a priority. His love and appreciation of the outdoors is evident throughout the home. A dining table crafted in sugar pine by a Tahoe friend sits dominantly in the great room, and a natural cedar mantel adorns the expansive fireplace, which is a focal point of the room. Original art from James Hoyle (www.jameshoyle.net) are warm reminders of time spent on the islands of Hawaii, and visually softens the hard surface of the polished cement flooring.

Elma Gardner of By Design, a local, award-winning kitchen and bath designer, was Jim’s designer for this project. She had worked with him previously on his Village Homes house. Having an existing working relationship contributed to the success of this new home’s design plan. Elma found Jim to be adventurous and open-minded with design ideas. They both considered the environment outside while developing her interior plans. For example, a beautiful unadorned window above the kitchen sink stands alone simply, with a lovely view to the front entry and large, natural pond. Opposite an expansive and contemporary, stainless hood (www.ventahood.com) and stainless Wolf range sits a large,