Thompson + Pollari
Sketch-A-House

Rancho Ramona  |  Ramona, California

This property is located in Ramona, California with fabulous long range views north to the National Forest from its hilltop perch. The existing house was a simple 3-bedroom, gabled structure in dire need of rehabilitation.  Design focused on select demolition of the existing house via removal of the garage mass, allowing for new additions moving towards the east along the ridge top.  New additions included the Great Room, two-story tower with wine room on level one and office on level two, master bedroom suite accessed through the Tower base, entry vestibule,  and garage with laundry room and guest toilet zones.  New and old spaces are tied together by the linear east/west “Gallery” corridor.

Rancho Ramona

Metal roofing, exposed bearing slump block walls and earth-colored stucco were utilized as primary exterior materials to evoke the Tuscan sensibility desired by the Owners. The metal roofing not only offers a lifetime roofing product, but also provided exemplary fire protection during the 2007 fires. Clerestory glazing at the Gallery supports passive heating of the Great Room during winter months.

Completion

June - 2007

Key Design Concepts

  • Tuscan / Western design themes
  • Linear plan allows for expansive Valley views from primary north facing spaces  
  • Two-story Tower creates pivotal form for new additions on the east
  • South facing al-fresco patio nestled between kitchen, garage and gallery
  • Linear “gallery” corridor