Custom Estate Home Rebuild in California: An Award-Winning Hillside Residence
Set at the pinnacle of a hillside with sweeping wine country views, this award-winning custom residence represents a complete transformation—reimagined through a thoughtful fire rebuild and a fully integrated design-build approach. Every element, from architecture to interiors and landscape, was carefully aligned to create a home that is both highly personal and architecturally distinctive.
Architecture Shaped by Setting and Lifestyle
Designed in collaboration with Farrell Faber & Associates, the home spans approximately 10,000 square feet under roof, including 8,000 square feet of conditioned living space. The architecture responds directly to its hillside setting, embracing the terrain rather than imposing upon it.
Positioned at the pinnacle of the site, the home is oriented to capture sweeping panoramic views across wine country. Expansive openings and intentional sightlines blur the boundary between indoors and out, making the landscape a constant presence.
The layout is organized into two distinct levels. The upper level lives as a single-story residence, where primary living spaces flow with ease and continuity. Below, a secondary level is dedicated to recreation and entertainment, creating a natural separation while maximizing the site.
Building with Purpose and Precision
As a fire rebuild, the project represents both renewal and opportunity. Rather than recreating what once stood, the approach was to elevate every aspect of the home—leveraging modern construction methods, improved safety, and a more refined architectural vision.
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Pre-Construction Aerial
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Grading & Foundation
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The beginnings of a Foundation
Site preparation extended beyond the footprint of the residence to encompass the entire estate. Early grading, infrastructure, and layout decisions were guided by a comprehensive master plan, allowing future outdoor features to be integrated from the outset. This created efficiencies in construction, reduced long-term disruption, and ensured a cohesive relationship between the home and its surroundings.
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The beginnings of an infinity pool
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Framing in progress
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Design & Accounting Team Site Visit
The landscape transforms the hillside into a series of intentional outdoor environments. An infinity-edge pool is positioned to capture the full expanse of the view, while a putting green and bocce court provide recreation. Terraced garden paths lead to private seating areas along the slope, and a discreet solar array is integrated at the lower portion of the property.
From structural engineering to final execution, the build reflects the level of coordination and craftsmanship that defines a Christopherson Builders home—and contributed to its industry recognition.
Interior Design: Cohesive, Elevated, and Personal
With the structure in place, the focus shifted to the interior—where the home takes on its character. The design process, led entirely in-house, allowed each space to be curated with intention, resulting in a cohesive environment that feels both refined and livable.
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Award-Winning Custom Home | Foyer
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Award-winning custom kitchen
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Coffered Cedar Ceiling | Award-Winning Custom Home
A warm, neutral palette anchors the interiors, complemented by natural wood tones, custom millwork, and layered materials. The entry establishes this language immediately, with wide-plank flooring, clean lines, and a blend of sculptural and organic lighting that balances scale with warmth.
The dining space introduces texture and depth, while large windows maintain a constant connection to the landscape. Throughout the home, lighting serves as both function and feature—adding rhythm, scale, and visual interest.
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Dining Area with Blown Glass Chandelier
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16' Coffered Ceiling
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Primary Wing
In the great room, a coffered ceiling detail adds dimension, while the fireplace anchors the space. Large openings extend the room outward, reinforcing the home’s indoor-outdoor living concept.
The kitchen continues this balance of function and refinement. Clean-lined cabinetry is paired with warm wood elements, and a generously scaled island supports both daily living and entertaining. Every detail is considered, resulting in a space that feels effortless yet highly tailored.
Lower Level Living and Outdoor Connection
The lower level is designed as a dedicated environment for recreation and gathering. A private theatre offers an immersive experience, supported by integrated technology and acoustic design, while adjacent spaces accommodate a range of uses.
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Illuminated Stair & Passenger Elevator
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Beautiful stair with custom paneling
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Sparkling LED Lighting in the Home Theatre
Circulation between levels is equally considered. A custom staircase, detailed with integrated lighting, serves as an architectural feature, while a private elevator provides convenience and accessibility.
Custom pool lockers create a seamless transition between interior spaces and outdoor amenities. Beyond, covered living areas, lounge spaces, and the infinity-edge pool establish a natural connection between the home and its surroundings.
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Outdoor Living
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Infinity pool | Automatic sun pergola
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Putting Green
From above, the full composition of the estate becomes clear—architecture and landscape working together to create a cohesive, resort-like environment.
A Complete Vision, Realized In-House
This home reflects the strength of a fully integrated approach. From concept through construction and interior design, every phase was led in-house by Christopherson Builders, ensuring continuity and alignment at every step.
For the homeowner, this creates a streamlined and highly coordinated experience. For the home itself, it results in a level of cohesion that is evident in every detail—where architecture, materials, and craftsmanship come together as a unified whole.
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Finished Estate Home Entry
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Aerial View of Home & Property
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Full-Circle Aerial View of Finished Estate
As a fire rebuild, the project represents not only a return, but an elevation. Combined with the complexity of the site and the quality of execution, it stands as a clear example of what can be achieved through a singular vision carried from beginning to completion.
At Christopherson Builders, every home reflects a commitment to craftsmanship, design, and a seamless client experience. This custom residence stands apart—recognized at the North Bay Excellence in Construction Awards for its thoughtful execution and elevated design.
Reference: https://christophersonbuilders.com/excellence-award/
Event Coverage: https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2023/11/16/photos-2023-north-bay-excellence-in-construction-awards-event-2/
