Hemlock House by Alexander Jermyn Architecture in California, USA

Project: Hemlock House
Architects: Alexander Jermyn Architecture
Location: Soda Springs, California, United States
Area: 3,200 sq ft
Year: 2021
Photography by: Jeremy Bitterman

Hemlock House by Alexander Jermyn Architecture

Located on a lakeside slope in the Sierra Nevada mountains, California, the Hemlock House designed by Alexander Jermyn Architecture reinterprets an alpine home through innovative materials. To withstand harsh regional weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and fire threats, the team conducted material durability tests during winter. The result is a stunning combination of charred wooden walls elevated above a concrete base, resembling a ship's hull. Sliding glass doors by the lake provide direct access to water, while the interior is filled with light that emphasizes its connection to nature. The upper floor contains main living spaces reflecting the panoramic lake view, while a mezzanine serves as an artist's studio. The lower level is designed for functional needs such as a garage, ski tuning station, media room and guest bedrooms.

Located on a sloping site at the lakeside in the Sierra Nevada mountains, California, this house reinterprets alpine housing through a unique material strategy. Winters here are harsh with some of the highest snowfall in continental US, often covering houses up to roof level. Summers bring constant fire threats. In response, the architectural team set up winter mockups to test material resilience.

The result is a composition of charred wooden walls above a concrete base. The charred (shou sugi ban) upper volume floats above the snow below. Concrete walls provide structural stability against snow loads and protect from external impacts, like a ship's hull. The porous facade by the water consists of sliding glass doors offering views and direct connection to the lake.

The interior spaces prioritize light and nature connection. A palette of bleached cedar and white walls reflects sunlight inside, directing it down the stairs to the lower level. Main living functions and dining area are on the second floor, capturing lake views. The day mezzanine floats above the kitchen and serves as an artist's studio. The lower level includes a garage, ski tuning station, laundry room, media room and guest bedrooms.

Interior spaces were designed with both public and privacy in mind. Built-in benches define intimate zones within the large family and dining room space. The bunk room accommodates 4-8 people with full beds and equipped electric lockers for remote work and games. The media room adjacent to the bunk room provides extra guest space.

The main construction was completed during the pandemic. The owner and architect were in 'podcast', traveling together for hours on site. This unity provided a unique opportunity for communication, collaboration and ultimately a shared vision for their family.

–Alexander Jermyn Architecture