Inside a Chic, Comfortable Hideaway in Carmel

April 9, 2024

Internationally renowned and winner of numerous awards, the architectural firm of Studio Schicketanz approaches each project with an intent to “weave together deeply philosophical approaches to landscape, architecture, and interior design.” This Carmel residence, which the group crafted before its custom construction in 2016, seems to exemplify those aims, with an adept use of natural materials and a dynamic link between indoors and out that is undeniable and apparent at every turn.

Carmel, California | Canning Properties Group, Sotheby’s International Realty – Carmel Brokerage

Sheltered by a stalwart coastal live oak tree, a stone walkway with a water feature introduces the home and its resort-caliber ambience. The nexus of the 4,073-square-foot interiors is an impressive, inviting great room with living, dining, kitchen, and entertaining space crowned by dramatic vaulted beamed reclaimed wood ceilings and radiant-heated repurposed limestone tile floors. The space is wrapped in glass, creating a sensation of being virtually at one with its surroundings. The use of richly hued natural materials conjures a milieu of welcoming warmth—a feeling furthered by the stacked Carmel stone fireplace that anchors the alluring living space. The streamlined kitchen will please gourmands and entertainers with its easy, open flow and access to the public spaces. A cozier, more intimate study or media room features built-ins and a contemporary fireplace of its own.

Flooded with light, the serene primary bedroom suite is a true escape with an idyllic vista of Carmel’s hills, mountains, and evergreen treetops. The sitting area is equipped with built-in bookshelves, a corner fireplace, and sliding glass doors that give way to a private deck. Completing the suite are a walk-in closet and a spa-like bath, where a modern soaking tub is set beside a wide window with a relaxing, picturesque outlook. The shower catches the eye with its striking variegated tile, which adds a touch of textural and visual flair. The guest bedrooms are quiet, peaceful mountain-view aeries with built-in storage, and similarly stylish baths. The discreet guesthouse indulges visitors with living and dining space, a sophisticated kitchenette with superior appointments, a quiet bedroom, and windows and a private terrace area enjoying a pastoral perspective.

Outdoors, a plethora of spaces have been thoughtfully positioned for appreciation of the area’s pleasant climate, blue skies, and far-reaching views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the ocean. Off the main living areas is a deep, expansive covered terrace whose sole purpose is relaxation while reveling in sweeping vistas and cool, refreshing breezes. At one end, a sheltered area with a fireplace is a perfect perch for stargazing year-round. A path in the front courtyard leads to a freestanding sun-dappled cottage with shelving and cabinetry that is ideal for an office, a studio, or a gym. The meandering seven acres nurture numerous fruit trees and provide space for sitting around a fire pit.

This home’s new owner will benefit from a social membership at the Tehàma Golf Club, whose amenities include a fine cuisine, banquet facilities, a full-service members-only pro shop, fitness facilities, two pools, a spa, tennis and pickleball courts, and an invitation-only Jay Morrish–designed golf course overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The exclusive community is mere moments from historic Carmel-by-the-Sea, offering further options for superlative dining as well as numerous stylish boutiques and galleries.