Zanzibar

twothousand06

aptos, california + 3,300 square feet
architect | fuse architects inc.
contractor | T Miller Construction Inc.
details | cedar, natural stone, smooth stucco, exposed concrete
modeling | animatehouse

This home was a dream brought to life through the determination and perseverance of the architects and client. Our client fell in love with a Fuse design that she saw under construction. She sought us out to begin the journey of her own home design. The client had not yet found a property for her project. When she purchased one it was in an upscale gated community, which contained houses of more traditional architectural styles. The property was on a beautiful lot surrounded by a nature preserve. Getting the approval to build a modern home in this neighborhood was going to be a challenge. Up to this point, the only styles accepted for construction in the neighborhood were Mediterranean, Tuscan, Craftsman and Prairie. This would have been the only home in the community with a modern style, so naturally we were expecting some concern from the neighbors. With support from the community architect within the neighborhood, and our client’s diligent efforts, the project was approved with unanimous support from the board. When the home was nearing completion we approached two elderly women painting watercolors near the jobsite. In stealth mode, not apprising them of our design role in the home, we asked for their opinion. Thinking that these women may have held strongly oppositional thoughts regarding the home’s design, we were stunned to hear their response: “This is what the neighborhood should be, it is the only house that belongs and fits with the landscape.” Truly one of our best compliments to date!