Description

First offering: The Keeler House, 1990, Raymond Kappe, FAIA. The architect's work has been described as the apotheosis of the California Modern House, and while some may argue the point, it is clear that Ray Kappe pushed the limits of California's Post & Beam style to its ultimate conclusion, and in doing so created unsurpassed space for California living. The Keeler house is a textbook example, but at the same time it is much more. Here, Kappe perfects a modern interpretation not only of the high ideals of Wright's Organic Architecture, but also of the Craftsman Era's fine woodworking. The result is a masterpiece.Meticulously constructed over four and one half years in clear heart redwood, teak, fir, concrete, and glass, the residence dramatically soars over its hillside site, yet is one with its intimate forested aqua garden, and the city and ocean vistas. The integration of architecture with landscape is remarkable. At the street level, entry is hidden by a clean-lined, not quite anonymous, concrete and opaque glass wall. Upon entering, the tone is set with guests crossing over the water course. One turns and sees the residence set high above like a Japanese temple. Access to the house is a journey best taken slowly and with a reverent attitude. Upon reaching the entertainment space one is rewarded with an unforgettable imprint that can only be experienced directly in great architecture. For the owners, a drive above the house leads to the gated parking plaza, a carport, and direct access to the residence which incorporates open plan living/entertainment areas and decks with the spaces integrated both horizontally and vertically, media room, four bedrooms, three baths. kitchen, laundry, utility room, storeroom, and a separate guest quarters and bath which has been converted from an earlier music studio, all of which has been meticulously maintained, restored, and upgraded by the sole owner since built.