After losing their off-grid home in the 2019 Kincade Fire, the owners of Pine Flat Residence chose to rebuild with a clear goal. Create a house that could endure future wildfire conditions while supporting daily life over time.
Set in the hills north-east of Healdsburg, California, the project by Faulkner Architects focuses on resilience, accessibility, and a deep connection to the site.
Building on What Remains
The new house sits on the remains of the original structure, reusing 90 percent of the existing concrete foundation and walls. This decision preserved embodied energy and reduced the need for new excavation.
A simple rectangular form now occupies the previously angular footprint. Portions of the old foundation extend outward, becoming a sculptural entry step and a glazed light well.
Half buried into the hillside, the preserved base contrasts with the elevated structure above, while the form follows the ridgeline.
Designed to Resist Fire
Durability drives the material palette. A fire-resistive corten steel shell wraps the home, paired with sliding ember screens and exterior sprinklers positioned above the decks.
These elements work together to reduce fire risk while requiring minimal maintenance over time. The structure is designed to withstand exposure, with materials chosen for longevity in a remote setting.
Outdoor Space With Built-In Protection
The deck extends outward, protected by overhead sprinklers that activate during fire events. This system adds a defensive layer while maintaining usable outdoor space.
Water management is integrated into the design. A cantilevered gutter directs runoff into a steel basin, where it is filtered through a vegetated bioretention area before reaching a retention pond.
An Open Living Space Designed for Everyday Ease
At the center of the home, a new concrete chimney anchors the main floor. It frames the presence of fire within the landscape, a reminder of both necessity and risk.
The living area sits on the primary level alongside the kitchen and dining spaces, supporting ease of movement and long-term accessibility. Clearances are designed for wheelchair maneuvering, and the overall plan anticipates future adaptability, including a pre-framed location for a potential elevator.
Private Spaces Designed for Comfort and Longevity
The primary bedroom is located on the main level, ensuring it remains easily accessible as the owners age, while the other bedrooms are located on the lower level of the home.
Practical Design That Lasts
Bathrooms are designed with accessibility in mind, with spatial allowances that support ease of use.
A Plan Shaped by Site and History
The design reflects a careful response to both site and history. The reused foundation defines the footprint, while the new rectangular volume simplifies construction and reduces waste.
An entry ramp extends outward toward the west hillside, becoming both a functional and expressive element. The integration of systems, structure, and landscape is evident throughout the planning.
Pine Flat Residence shows how rebuilding can go beyond replacement. It becomes an opportunity to rethink how a home performs under pressure, from wildfire risk to long-term use. Here, architecture is shaped by necessity.