Inside an Elegantly Easygoing Gem in Napa

Finding one phrase that can encapsulate the sophisticated aesthetic of Northern California’s revered wine country is difficult, but “casual elegance” or “refined and rustic” might suffice. Even the most exclusive estates in the Napa or Sonoma Valley areas often feature a distinctive blend of rustic materials, soothing neutral—and often natural—palettes, relaxed furnishings, floods of natural light, and views of rolling hills or vineyards. Every effort is made to facilitate a life lived outdoors as much as in.

Napa, California | Ginger Martin, Sotheby’s International Realty – St. Helena Brokerage

On this roughly one-acre site, a modern wood entry gate opens to a drive that winds amid carefully placed native grasses and trees to a shady motor court and sculpture garden. The silhouette of this 2021 gem unites sleek, crisp contemporary lines with the more classic, rustic form of a farmhouse’s pitched roof. Every interior space catches the eye in some unique way, with remarkable palettes, textures, wall treatments, and bespoke light fixtures that double as art installations. The boundaries between interiors and the natural surroundings seem to disappear, with multiple walls of pocketing glass creating sight lines that flow from the front grounds to the backyard oasis.

Beneath the traditional angled roof is the heart of the home, an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining space accented by dramatic trusses. With its deeply hued streamlined cabinetry—the work of San Francisco–based interior designer Cindy Bayon—the kitchen area centers around a marble island with counter seating and is backed by a scullery or chef’s kitchen, where the “real work” of culinary creations happens. The outdoor kitchen, on the other hand, is the realm of the grill master. Just outside the large disappearing panels of glass in the vast living area, the enveloping flora creates virtual walls of greenery.

In its own wing, beneath the more contemporary roofline, is a spacious media and music room that also opens to the backyard terraces. One of four generous suites—each of which has an individual design motif—the primary bedroom is filled with light during the day, and windows allow scenery to double as art. A walk-in closet with lighted shoe shelves will delight the clothes horse, and the chic bath rivals the most luxurious modern spa. A secluded gym opens through sliding glass doors directly to the backyard. In a clear nod to the day’s leading edge, the two-car garage includes dual electric vehicle chargers.