For those looking for a unique spot on the Northern Coast of California to spend a few days of peaceful reflection, Sea Ranch, a thoughtfully designed community located on the Sonoma Coast is the answer.
An iconic story in the world of architecture, Sea Ranch is a distinctively unique space of homes along one of the most pristine stretches of California's rugged northern coastline. Dating back to the early 60s, Sea Ranch was the brainchild of architect and planner Al Boeke who envisioned a community that would 'step lightly on the land.' Upon visiting you will see this vision brought to life through clean lines of simple timber-frame structures clad in wooden siding that more or less camouflage amidst the land and steel grey ocean beyond.
Boeke gathered a talented design team including American architects Charles Moore, Joseph Esherick, William Turnbull, Jr., Donlyn Lyndon, Richard Whitaker and talented landscape architect Lawrence Halprin. Halprin was responsible for creating the master plan which drew on the local structures for inspiration and studied the way that those buildings were designed to deal with the often harsh wind and foggy weather the area is famously known for. Also unique, the exteriors are mostly unpainted wood, you won't spot any overhanging eaves. The lack of overhanging eaves is also intended to allow the notorious northern California whipping winds to pass over the buildings without the turbulence the overhangs would create. Lighting is also restrained to minimize nighttime light pollution. The most thoughtful design element, there are no street lights which creates a spectacular night sky peppered with millions of stars.
If you're planning a trip to Northern California and looking for a peaceful escape with a phenomenal history of thoughtful residential design that masterfully blends in with the natural landscape, look no further than Sea Ranch.
