This certified Passive House in Carmel Valley’s Cachagua region is a fully electric, net-zero energy-plus home designed for comfort, efficiency, and connection to its natural surroundings. Set on 10 acres with sweeping mountain views, the residence features a restored observatory that first drew the clients to the site, which was carefully lifted and temporarily held in place while a new garage and attached ADU were constructed beneath it. A shared courtyard now connects the observatory and the main residence, creating a multigenerational retreat where stargazing, sustainability, and sanctuary come together.

Shortly after construction began, the 2020 Carmel Fire devastated the surrounding area. Thanks to its WUI-compliant construction, including a stucco-clad envelope with Gutex exterior insulation, no overhangs with a standing seam metal roof, along side well-planned defensible space, the home remained unharmed. With its airtight envelope, triple-pane windows, HRV system, and rooftop solar array, the house offers year-round comfort, fresh air, and energy efficiency, while showcasing the value of fire-resilient, high-performance design.