On a bluff above the Pacific Ocean in Aptos, California, sits a beautiful modern home where the architecture, landscape, and dramatic site exist in perfect harmony. The view, the sea air, sounds, microclimates and activities around the property were considered and assembled to create a series of experiences that make the most of this incredible spot. When landscape architect Randy Thueme first arrived at the site, a new house was being redesigned to sit on axis with views to the ocean from the entrance court through the home. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture The house is secluded from the street and neighbors by a forest that includes mature redwood trees. Even from way back here, you can see the axis that goes straight down the pedestrian path, through the front door to the ocean view beyond. The driveway winds along the line created by the edge of an olive grove.

The owners not only love to spend as much time outdoors as possible, but they also love their dogs. Hi, Buddy! Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture The pedestrian pathway lets one approach a dramatic entry court with views that pass right through the house. The entryway was designed not only for drama and a special journey, but also as a space sheltered from the Pacific winds. It provides a warmer microclimate for gathering outdoors on windy nights.

Here comes another cute pooch to greet visitors. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture The homeowners loved gray and chose a quartzite stone flooring for indoors and out, connecting the spaces. 'Swan Hill' fruitless olive trees and Mexican feather grass were chosen for their architectural simplicity and easy maintenance. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture Originally, the part you see that contains the pea gravel was supposed to be all gravel, but during construction the clients worried about guests in really nice high-heeled shoes navigating the gravel. Thus, the rhythmic lines of tinted concrete slabs were added. It seems the being considerate of Jimmy Choos paid off. Thueme says "everyone was pleased with the addition to the composition." Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture On a clear day you can see from the Monterey Peninsula to Santa Cruz as you round this corner. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture The lady of the house is an avid bocce ball fan, and the composition of the back terrace is defined by a 60-foot-long bocce court. Spaces for lounging, gathering, eating and chatting surround this central space. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture To keep things cohesive, all of the outdoor furnishings are stainless steel, aluminum and ipe. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture "The fountain spout was placed on direct axis with the front door — it is seen from the entry court, through the house." The wall was kept low to preserve views, yet was scaled to be large enough to have the appropriate presence. This design move ties the architecture of the house to the untamed landscape beyond. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture The site engages all of the senses. "The ocean and sky are always part of the experience no matter where you are on the site," Thueme says. "The flowing water has just enough sound to make the distant hum of the Pacific Coast Highway traffic below, yet quiet enough not to overwhelm quiet conversations or group gatherings." Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture This terrace is made of the same 24-inch square quartzite used throughout the house, creating an easy transition between indoors and out. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture "The outdoor kitchen and pizza oven was a must for the husband. He is an avid cook and uses the pizza oven on an almost daily basis for cooking – much more than just pizza." The kitchen was placed in a spot off to the side that was convenient to the indoor kitchen and gathering spots, but where it does not predominate. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture The facing on the outdoor kitchen is the same layered limestone that you saw on the fountain in the previous photo, and the stainless steel used on the appliances relates to the outdoor furniture. Being able to cook outdoors is a great way to spend some more time outside enjoying the fresh air and the views.

Thank you, Randy Thueme for sharing this thoughtful and beautiful project with us.

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