See Arch: Awardee of International Residential Architecture Awards 2020. The Maui Retreat was designed for San-Francisco-based clients planning their retirement on Maui.  After purchasing the property in the 90s, the clients have spent years since then landscaping it into a perfect paradise.  The home was designed to echo the detailed and tasteful nature of its occupants: expansive, travertine-covered walls line hallways,  treated walnut, oak, and cedar on the floors, ceilings, and cabinets and beautifully tactile fixtures were hand-selected down to the light switches and outlets.

While the Maui Retreat was designed around spectacular scenic views, it is also a space for the making and displaying of art.  Curating light, wall finishes and views throughout the interior of the home was a priority for the clients, one of whom is a San Francisco visual artist.

As with any hIllside site, the design of the Maui Retreat started with a site visit and study to understand each of the property’s spectacular views.  The dramatic scenery, lush gardens, and agricultural context infused our process with constant inspiration.

Early intentions were set to design for both north and south views: to the north are the property’s horse pasture, orchards, and ocean-view beyond while South presented a distant peak-view of Maui’s Haleakalā volcano.

Mindful of the client’s interest in horticulture and gardening, it was just as important to bring the outdoors in as it was to direct views out.  Interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces were incorporated into the design to feature the magnificent vegetation selected and maintained by the residents.  Recessed planters and courtyards frame the architecture of the home, providing a lush background to the contemporary lines and materials of the interior.

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Third Award: International Residential Architecture Awards 2020 

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Firm: See Arch
Architects: Sarah Ebner
Category: Residential Concept
Project Location: Haiku, MI
Team: Sarah Ebner, Daniela Tenorio, Elizabeth Renner, Karina Andreeva, BONE Structures, Tobb Boyd Homes
Country: United States
Photography ©Credit: See Arch

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“See Architecture is an architecture and design firm based in Oakland, California.  Founded in 2016, See Architecture started from the simple intention to improve the work-life balance of architectural practice while upholding the excellence of architectural craft. Now in its fourth year, the practice has grown to three full-time architects and three collaborators, with a variety of commercial, residential, and retail projects. Our work has been featured in both local and national press including a feature in Dwell 2019.”