Clear Lake Hearth & Horizon

At the very top of the hill, among the old oaks, the whole of Clear Lake opens up below: sunrise on one side, sunset on the other.

It wasn't the first house we looked at, but something about it called to us: a deep, unhurried peace. So we brought that peace inside. The design stays soft and gentle, never competing with the view: natural woods, knotty pine glowing in the evening, sheepskins, rattan and Beni Ourain rugs.

We did it in just a couple of weeks, and on a budget. Every wall got fresh paint, and so did the kitchen and bathroom floor tiles and even the countertops. A little creativity goes a long way.

Now it's where we come to rest, and guests tell us the same thing: it feels like being cradled. Deer wander by most mornings. Pour a coffee and let the view do the rest.