Mahya Salehi Studio |Architecture + Interior|

Napa Hills Residence


TYPE: Single-Family Residence
TASK:  Major Addition, Alteration, Interior Design
LOT SIZE: 81.6 AC
BUILT AREA: 8,400 SF
JURISDICTION:  Napa County
STATUS:  Permitting

Nestled in the gorgeous Napa Valley, with breathtaking views of a private lake and meadows all around, we are in the process of designing a forever home for our dear clients. The project consists of three connected buildings that each house a multitude of functions. At the heart, a glass “jewel box” connects the various spaces and serves as the main entrance to the home.

Site and Context

The Partrick Road Residence boasts breathtaking views of a private lake and surrounding meadows. Spanning an impressive 81.6-acre lot, the property offers a serene backdrop for designing a forever home that embodies both tranquility and grandeur.

The project integrates an existing house as one of three interconnected buildings, each serving distinct functions while harmonizing with the natural beauty of the site. At the heart of the design is a glass “jewel box” that serves as the main entrance and central hub, seamlessly connecting the spaces and framing the stunning landscape.

Photograph by © Mark Luthringer

Concept and Vision

From the outset, the design aimed to achieve two goals: to maximize the connection to the landscape and to create an ethereal, awe-inspiring space. Drawing inspiration from a watercolor painting that resonated deeply with the clients, the concept explores the balance between the familiar and the dreamlike. This emotional connection informed the design’s exploration of translucency, lightness, and a seamless dialogue with the surroundings.

The vision includes a ghostly reinterpretation of a classic palazzo, evoking both strength and delicacy. Influenced by Edoardo Tresoldi’s neoclassical wire mesh sculptures, the design envisions a minimal glass exterior enveloping a classic mesh form. This tension between modern minimalism and classical elegance creates a breathtaking centerpiece, inspiring awe while fostering a deep connection to the site and the clients’ aspirations.

Architectural Solutions

The architectural approach integrates three connected volumes to accommodate the diverse needs of the home while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The 8,400-square-foot built area is designed to balance function with artistry. The glass “jewel box” serves as the main entrance and central connector, offering transparency and fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. Skylights and expansive glazing maximize natural light and ensure uninterrupted views of the lake and meadows.

The design leverages the tension between solid and transparent elements, combining tectonic forms with lightweight materials. This interplay allows the home to feel both grounded and ethereal, blending seamlessly with its environment while offering moments of surprise and wonder. The integration of mesh structures within the glass pavilion adds a layer of texture and complexity, reinforcing the architectural narrative.

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