Pine Flat Residence by Faulkner Architects Blends Resilience With Serenity
This off‑grid retreat uses a non-combustible weathering steel shell to defend against extreme wildfire risks.
Summary
- Faulkner Architects designed Pine Flat Residence as an off-grid retreat using a fire-resistant Corten steel and glass shell
- Long, low volumes feature a continuous skylight and warm native valley oak interiors
- Sustainable systems, including photovoltaics and geothermal pumps, ensure total energy independence
The Pine Flat Residence, designed by Faulkner Architects, is an off-grid family retreat located in the rugged foothills of Healdsburg, California. The design is deeply influenced by its site — a 10-acre property situated at an elevation of 2,000 feet that was devastated by the 2017 Tubbs Fire. To address the extreme wildfire risk and the harsh high-altitude environment, the architects opted for a non-combustible exterior shell primarily composed of weathering steel (Corten) and glass, allowing the structure to endure the elements while aging naturally into the surrounding landscape.
The architecture is characterized by a series of long, low-slung volumes that follow the natural topography, minimizing the home’s visual impact on the ridge. A standout design element is the continuous translucent skylight that runs the length of the main hallway, flooding the interior with soft, diffused light and acting as a central axis for the home. Inside, the industrial exterior is balanced by a warm, minimal palette of native valley oak and concrete, creating a calm sanctuary that contrasts with the exposed, wind-swept terrain outside. Large floor-to-ceiling glass panels are strategically placed to frame expansive views of the Mayacamas Mountains and the distant Pacific Coast Range.
Operating entirely off-the-grid, the residence utilizes a sophisticated suite of sustainable systems to achieve energy independence. The home is powered by a photovoltaic array coupled with battery storage, while a geothermal heat pump manages climate control.
Additionally, the design incorporates passive cooling strategies, such as deep roof overhangs and cross-ventilation, to regulate temperatures during the hot Sonoma County summers. By merging high-performance resilience with a sensitive aesthetic, Faulkner Architects has created a residence that serves as both a fortress against wildfire and a quiet lens for experiencing the natural world.
