Long, narrow, sloped, and hemmed in — this Fremont, California terrain would be an instant red flag for potential home buyers, but this didn’t scare off a family who wanted to turn the awkward lot into their light-filled family retreat. Enter Mahya Salehi Studio, who stepped up to the challenge to deliver the Washington Residence for a tech couple and their kids.
The parcel’s odd shape actually worked in their favor, giving them built-in privacy: the sloping terrain allowed them to embed the lower level into the hillside, and staggering the upper floors let Salehi carve out more square footage without overwhelming the site. A sunshade study created openings — skylights, glazing, and overhangs — that let in maximum light throughout the house. The south-facing courtyard fosters a connection with the views and greenery of the property.
The residence is a balance of quiet, textural warmth. Hand-raked stucco and limestone clad the exteriors, while dark stone counters and wood cabinetry are featured inside. The layout keeps the kitchen, breakfast nook and family lounge connected, while bedrooms enjoy their own private decks, further enhancing the home’s indoor-outdoor experience. The lower-level has enough space to accommodate two bedrooms for aging grandparents, alongside a theatre and a library. Turning problem into possibility, Mahya Salehi Studio shaped a home that turned an overlooked lot into what the family needed.
Photography © Adam Potts