Baus House
The setting for the Baus House is a spectacular 1.5 acre property in Orinda, California, with west facing, unobstructed 180 degree views of the valley below and the Berkeley hills in the distance. To take full advantage of the dramatic views, the project has been divided into three inter-connected elements – the main house, the infinity-edge pool, and the guest house – lining the western edge of the bluff.
The 5,275 square foot main house occupies the northern portion of the site, with two levels that step down at the edge of the bluff. The upper level includes the master suite and all of the public (kitchen, dining and living) spaces. The lower level includes a home office and 2 guest bedrooms. All major spaces are oriented to the west. An 825 square foot single level guest house is carved into the northern portion of the hillside, so that it virtually disappears when viewed from the main house. Like the main house, the guest house is also oriented to enjoy the views to the west. A striking infinity-edge pool, surrounded by stone terraces and wood decks, is located in the center of the composition, between the main and guest houses.
Taking cues from the shape of the bluff, the cantilevered roof and terrace planes of the main house have been designed with beautiful curved forms that follow the contours of the land.
