House of Earth and Sky by Aidlin Darling Design

Location: Hillsborough, California, United States

Year: 2015

Architects: Aidlin Darling Design

Interiors: Gary Hutton Design

Landscape Architect: Lutsko Associates

Lighting Designer: Eric Johnson Associates

Photography © Matthew Millman

This sustainable home celebrates the intersection of earth and sky. One enters below grade and ascends vertically through the ground to arrive in a series of glass pavilions, anchored by rammed earth walls and sheltered under kite-like floating roofs. Wood floors, ceilings, and cabinetry provide a sensual layer within the rough walls and surrounding gardens.

Ecological responsibility guided the design of this LEED-Platinum, Net Zero Energy home. Earth walls utilize on-site material resources and provide thermal mass. Lightweight roof planes orient photovoltaics toward the sun, guide rainwater to cisterns, and provide shade through calibrated overhangs. High-efficiency envelope and mechanical systems and greywater recycling further support the ecologically sensitive design.

Aidlin Darling Design