Design for a Craftsman Client

The original homeowner of our Prairie Modern on Buckskin Drive in Laguna Hills, Mark, had always been passionate about craftsmanship. A long career in building left him yearning to craft a home with his own hands, employing the most authentic materials, no matter how extravagant.

His search for an ocean vista took him to Orange County, where he found a sloping property high on a hill featuring a stunning 180-degree view. The site was perfect, except for one catch. A modern design was never going to make it past the Home Owners’ Association.

When he presented the problem to Marc, Marc suggested the Prairie Style of architecture made famous by Frank Lloyd Wright, because an exterior of natural materials – brick, wood, and plaster – framed by clean lines and long eaves would fit beautifully into a traditional neighborhood. The interior rooms with their open layout and linear flow would also satisfy Mark's desire for a modern experience, while demanding from him the craftsmanship of which he is most proud of today.

You can hear it in Mark’s voice as he talks about the 4 x 4 plan grid that extends from the ground floor to the top floor, the wood joinery and custom cherry wood cabinetry, the trapezoidal front door that pivots on a pin, and the garages he cleverly kept off of the face of the property by sculpting the lot and removing 5 feet of dirt.

Mission accomplished. Passion for craftsmanship was satisfied.