A hilltop location and ocean views were a welcome starting point for Brett Farrow Architects in the firm’s project in the Southern Californian coastal community of Encinitas. Building onto a limited footprint, the firm got creative with the two-level Cornish House to make the most of the beautiful sightlines over the ocean. Using a reverse floorplan with two bedrooms on the ground floor and an open layout taking in a living room, kitchen, and dining space above, the main living space is set up to enjoy the views through the tall windows that run the length of the entire property. 

Downstairs, the bedrooms aren’t forgotten, with each of the two sleeping quarters leading to its own private courtyard space. Fitting a trapezoid shape into an awkward plot, Brett Farrow Architects’ beautiful Cornish House delivers maximum return with views to boot. 

Photography © Paul Rivera for Brett Farrow Architects