Set atop a 38 acre ridge overlooking rolling vineyards, Whispering Stones is a private residence designed with a deep respect for the surrounding environment. Commissioned by clients with a refined appreciation for modern architecture, the estate balances contemporary design with a thoughtful approach to land stewardship. Designed by Swatt + Partners, the home integrates into its setting without disturbing the existing natural elements.
A Driveway Designed for Preservation
The estate’s entrance establishes the design philosophy from the outset. A two-thirds mile driveway winds through a dense mix of live oaks, redwoods, bay laurel, and madrone trees, carefully laid out to avoid harming the vegetation. To achieve this, Swatt + Partners constructed board-formed concrete retaining walls that trace the natural contours of the site. These walls not only stabilize the terrain but also protect the root systems of mature trees.
Architecture in Dialogue with the Terrain
The 8,500 square foot residence stretches across the ridge in a way that respects the site’s natural topography. Elevated terraces extend from the structure, engaging directly with the surrounding terrain. An existing oak tree is incorporated into the architecture itself. It grows through an opening in the roof, serving as a symbolic gesture of continuity between the built and natural environments. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows bring natural light into the home while encouraging a direct connection to the landscape.
Material Contrast and Precision
Sharp, geometric lines define the design of Whispering Stones, contrasting with the organic forms of the surrounding vegetation. A glass bridge spans the entryway, creating a focal point within the structure. A sculptural “Braille” wall adds a sense of compression between the entrance and the kitchen and living spaces. The material palette includes concrete, glass, stainless steel, aluminum trellises, and Western Red Cedar siding. Each element emphasizes clarity and precision. These materials stand in contrast to the windswept grasses and twisting branches of the estate’s trees.
Sustainability and Resilience
Sustainability is embedded in the home’s design, with passive strategies ensuring energy efficiency and environmental harmony. Natural ventilation, controlled solar exposure, and photovoltaic panels work together to regulate indoor temperatures while minimizing reliance on external energy sources. The estate also prioritizes water conservation, incorporating high-efficiency plumbing fixtures and an irrigation system fed by an on-site well. Landscaping consists of native and drought-resistant species, ensuring minimal water use once the plants establish themselves.
Fire Protection Measures
Given the estate’s location in an area prone to wildfires, the residence is equipped with advanced fire suppression technology. A system of mobile tanks, positioned on the building’s roof, can deploy a water-soluble, environmentally safe compound to slow the spread of flames. This precautionary measure adds an extra layer of security, protecting both the structure and its surrounding vegetation.
Location: Healdsburg, California, USA
Year Completed: 2023
Category: Residential, Single Family
Designed by: Robert Swatt, FAIA & Construction Adminstration by Lars Nilsson, AIA of SWATT + PARTNERS (previously Swatt Miers Architects).
Photo credit: Tim Griffith
