This weekend family home, in rural Marin County, California, is a relaxing haven for its occupants. The key spaces for eating, playing, and resting all open to the outdoors. An example: Overhead garage doors open the living porch to the patio. The starting point for the design was an L-shaped courtyard plan incorporating straw-bale construction. Sets of French doors open the kitchen to the central dining patio. The breakfast area includes a built-in window seat that can double as a daybed, providing a perfect spot for a good read and an impromptu nap. » see room