Portola Valley Home Renovation with New ADU
This Portola Valley project combines the 3300 sf renovation of an existing single-story 6040 sf residence and the addition of a new 960 sf accessory dwelling unit.
The main house renovation reorganizes several key living spaces to improve flow and daily function for a growing family. The entry, dining room, living room, kitchen, powder room, and laundry are being updated, while part of the existing garage is converted into a home office, mudroom, and utility space. Interior alterations also reshape a guest room and children’s recreation room.
Outside, the design reimagines the property’s outdoor living areas. What was once a disconnected patio is being transformed into a series of terraced patios that step down toward the existing pool and cabana. The goal is a landscape that encourages gathering, outdoor dining, and everyday family use.
Architecturally, the home draws from a Montecito-inspired Mediterranean palette, with white stucco walls, Spanish tile roofing, and deep green windows and doors. The material palette gives the home warmth and character while remaining consistent with the architectural language found throughout Portola Valley.
Landscape design for the project is led by Christian Douglas Design, with interiors by Kathryn Cahill at Rambeau.
Design development included ArchiCAD studies for the house and pool house, floor plan explorations for the new ADU, and kitchen rendering studies used to evaluate materials and appliance selections.
New Stone ADU in Portola Valley
For the second project, Fergus Garber Architects designed a new 790-square-foot accessory dwelling unit on a gently sloping, tree-filled property in Portola Valley, positioned to look outward through existing oaks and open views beyond.
The ADU draws from Mediterranean precedents common throughout the Peninsula, with stone siding, terra cotta Spanish roof tiles, and aluminum-clad windows. Inside, the interior is calm and refined. Vaulted ceilings bring volume to the compact footprint, while flush baseboards and door casings give the space a clean, contemporary finish that complements the traditional exterior materials.
The project is part of a larger landscape transformation led by Arterra Landscape Architects, who are reshaping the grounds around both the existing home and the new ADU. Paths, planting areas, and outdoor spaces are organized to take advantage of the natural slope and long views through the trees.
The project team also includes Drew Maran Construction, BKG Structural Engineers, Lea & Braze Engineering, and Romig Engineers.
Early design work included ArchiCAD elevation studies exploring window placement and proportion. Current construction photos show stone mockups used to refine the detailing of the window surrounds.
