CLIENTPrivate Zen Spa and Observatory

SERVICESNew Construction, Interiors

LOCATIONSonoma, CA

SIZE5,000 sq ft

STATUSCompleted 2007

Located adjacent to our client’s primary residence and nestled among heritage oak and olive trees, this private Zen spa and observatory offers a relaxing space to connect with the serene Sonoma countryside landscape.

Observatory in allee of olive trees (Photo by Tim Griffith)
Observatory in allee of olive trees (Photo by Tim Griffith)

The astronomical observatory houses a robotically controlled 20-inch telescope and an extensive private library. Clad in corten steel panels, the structure sits in a reflecting pool and is axially sited between an allee of old olive trees. A structural corten steel stairway provides access to the telescope and dome.

Spa building surrounded by serene landscaping (Photo by Tim Griffith)
Spa building surrounded by serene landscaping (Photo by Tim Griffith)

Sited among 250-year-old Oak trees, the 4,000 sq ft concrete, stone and corten steel Zen spa building includes a living/dining area with fireplace, and wet spa areas. Images from the observatory’s telescope, the Hubble catalog, and other sources are displayed on a large rear projection screen in the home theater.

Spa lounge opens into living room (Photo by Michael O'Callahan)
Spa lounge opens into living room (Photo by Michael O'Callahan)
Spa structure at night (Photo by Michael O'Callahan)
Spa structure at night (Photo by Michael O'Callahan)
Spa lounge (Photo by Michael O'Callahan)
Spa lounge (Photo by Michael O'Callahan)

Awards and Press

  • A Piece of Eden — Metropolis 2008
  • Ground Control — San Francisco Magazine 2008
  • High-Tech, High Life — La Vie 2009
  • AIA Redwood Empire’s People’s Choice Award — 2012
  • ASLA Honor Award — 2009

PHOTOGRAPHYTim Griffith, Michael O’Callahan