Limekiln Ranch

Set on a 500-acre ranch in the eastern Gabilan Mountains, this project was carefully sited below a small canyon in close collaboration with the owner and architect. The driveway loops in from the side, preserving unobstructed meadow views from the home.

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The architecture is defined by a datum of arched stone, rammed earth walls, and concrete weirs that both ground the structures and manage stormwater. The weirs serve a dual purpose, capturing and slowing roof and site runoff, while stepped terraces of permeable gravel paving promote infiltration and create a series of intimate lounging spaces below the house and guest bedrooms. Responding to the expansive scale of the landscape, the outdoor spaces follow the architectural rhythm, subtly extending or recessing along key lines to engage the surrounding environment. The result is a seamless integration of architecture, land, and nature.

_{*Limekiln Ranch was designed and completed while Michael was employed by Ground Studio.}