Family's weekend retreat

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.

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