Designing a Home Around an Oak Tree in Menlo Park

Construction is underway on a new contemporary custom home and ADU in Menlo Park’s Menlo Oaks neighborhood. Designed for a couple whose children have grown and moved out, the 5,000-square-foot residence and 700-square-foot accessory dwelling unit are planned to support daily life for two while providing flexible space for visiting family, including aging parents, and working from home.

Warm Contemporary Architecture in Menlo Oaks

Set among the mature redwoods that characterize Menlo Oaks, the design is organized around a prominent oak tree in the front yard. A courtyard at the entry creates a welcoming outdoor gathering space while providing privacy from the street. Cedar siding, board-formed concrete walls, and a corrugated metal roof give the home a warm contemporary character that responds to the surrounding landscape of Menlo Park.

Inside, the architecture emphasizes light, views, and connection to the garden. An “Away Room” frames a view toward the oak tree, while the great room features exposed trusses and clerestory windows that bring daylight into the interior. A generous scullery supports the owners’ love of cooking and entertaining, and colorful interiors and artwork add personality throughout the home.