Big Sur, Rocky Point House / Perched on the Big Sur coastline, this private residence and surrounding landscape was shaped by a hidden ravine which, discovered early in design, became the heart of the project. JLJA, in collaboration with Field Architecture, Uli Ernst, and the original owner, revealed and celebrated the ravine by designing in a seasonal stream. This stream and surrounding ravine plantings formed the bridge between the house’s entry and main living spaces. Boulders were artfully layered down the ravine to read as natural sculpture in the dry season, then transform into a waterfall, pond, and bird-bathing shelf when the rains arrive. Pathways invite discovery across the site's distinct ecosystems: cypress woodland, coastal meadow, riparian corridor, and coastal terrace.  Throughout, the design restored the coastal bluff to a healthier, more ecologically stable condition, returning the land to itself while deepening the human connection to place.

Photography by Joe Fletcher

Client: Private Client
Location: Big Sur, CA
Dates: 2021-2024
Size: 2.27-acre property
Architect:‍ ‍Field Architecture
General Contractor:‍ ‍Dowbuilt
Engineering Contractor: BW Engineering
Landscape Contractor: Town & Country Landscaping
Early Consulting Landscape Architect:‍ ‍Uli Ernst

Photography by Joe Fletcher

Photography by Joe Fletcher

Photography by Joe Fletcher

Landscape concept plan

Water and ravine study

Sketch of view through windows out to the landscape - little seep and pond

Sketch of view through windows out to the landscape - water feature