Overlooking San Francisco Bay, the owners’ original 1970s house was in serious need of a renovation that would make the most of its wonderful location in Tiburon, California. The project was carried out by Swatt Miers Architects, who not only completely transformed the old 3,200 square foot house, but also added an extra 2,000 square feet of space to the house plan.

Garay Residence CourtyardGaray Residence Pool View

The new Garay Residence is beautifully minimalist and enjoys complete privacy without any compromise on openness. The north side reveals nothing about the interior, with five freestanding Jerusalem Stone walls further enhancing the opacity of the façade, while also adding texture to the design. The entrance features a beautiful center pivot oak door that opens to reveal a lovely foyer.

Inside the house things change dramatically, with the indoor and outdoor areas beautifully merging into one another. The living/dining/kitchen area flaunts retracting glass doors on three sides, welcoming in a lot of sunlight and providing a sense of freedom and openness. Access to the lovely courtyard, reflective pool, and manicured garden is always easy and seamless.

The private areas include a spacious master suite with office/sitting room, two children’s bedrooms, two guest rooms, and an au pair room. Other cool areas include an office with private bath, a gym with locker room, a media room, and an outdoor shower. We would definitely file this transformation under ‘Money Well Spent’.

Garay Residence Living Room Garay Residence Kitchen 1 Garay Residence Pool 2