The program called for maximizing the volume within the strict and complicated rules of the city of Carmel. Horizontal pop-outs and a vertical clerestory lantern over the kitchen capture light and add a little space here and there. The skylight is electronic and when switched off-becomes opaque so no light impacts the nightscape.

The design employs Monterey cypress from fallen trees in golden gate park to provide a golden honey hued horizontal siding, in harmony with the modern wooden home next door. The cypress clad stainless steel garage doors are fabricated by a company that makes doors for fire stations and they accordion-open in just a few seconds.