The Sanctuary

location: Palo Alto, California

architecture and interior design: Feldman Architecture

landscape architecture: Ground Studio

images: Joe Fletcher

Aptly named ‘The Sanctuary’, thanks to the Zen spirit that pervades the entire property, this private home successfully integrates itself as an oasis of peace and greenery with the lively urban centre of Palo Alto.

From the outset, the concept was to design a modern home that could fit into the surrounding neighbourhood while at the same time, revealing its own unique, captivating landscape. First impressions are highlighted by a majestic heritage oak that spreads its impressive branches over most of the driveway and front yard.

Entry is through a series of courtyards that are interwoven along the structure’s undulating footprint. Each interior space is paired with its own exterior landscape, allowing the architecture and the landscape to integrate effectively.

A sense of surprise and amazement awakens at each step through the many hidden courtyards. Diffused natural light illuminates the interior during the day, playing with the palette of colours chosen for the decorative materials.

Prominent here are pieces from Flexform, one of Italy’s leading contemporary furniture designer / manufacturers.

A lavish arrangement of the Ettore sofa upholstered in a fabric with warm, reassuring tones, encourages and maintains this innate sense of relaxation. Added is the elegant Morgan armchairEste coffee table in marble and Giano footstool to round out the living room decor. All of these items were designed by Antonio Citterio.

Tris side tables are ingeniously employed in the bedroom as night stands, while a glass door allows access to a tiny balcony where the elegant Peter armchair offers the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy the peaceful garden.

 

Flexform is available in South Africa from Il Lusso – visit www.illusso.co.za