BOTTASSO COURT RESIDENCE

​The 3-Degree Residence is a family home on an agricultural property within Bennett Valley, in central Sonoma County, so named because of its alignment with the summit of nearby Bennett Peak (which is 3-degrees West of true North from the building site). The residence is positioned at the base of a low hill and elevated slightly above a vineyard block to take advantage of panoramic views of the vineyard-dotted valley, nearby mountains and open space, and rolling terrain characteristic of this corner of Sonoma County.

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In plan, the spaces of the home are arranged in a simple L-shape, with two distinct legs separating shared quasi-public functions of Living, Dining, and Kitchen, from more private Family spaces and Bedroom areas. The legs are served by an entry gallery which bisects the plan and connects site arrival from the North to the sunny pool patio while giving access to all areas of the interior. 

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The private portion of the house is situated below the adjacent Easterly hill to form a backstop to the outdoor spaces. The Living/Dining/Kitchen leg extends into this area and bifurcates the site North from South, creating two distinct prospects. Each side of this leg is covered by a generous porch roof, and these are further connected through the interior by two twenty-four-foot pocketing sliding glass doors. The result of the organization of the home is a variety of changeable edge spaces which give the occupants choices to capitalize on sun and shade, protect from winds or allow breezes to enter, and to set boundaries to engage with guests or family during gatherings. Photographs are by Adam Potts.