View of exterior entrance and front gate open at the Porta Luna House by architect Lara Dutto

Porta Luna House

The Porta Luna house, a 3,800 sq. ft. newly constructed home sits quietly down a long gravel driveway lined with olive trees in Lafayette, California. The only remnants of the original residence are the reclaimed redwood beams and boards scattered around in purposeful contrast to the crisp steel doors and smooth stucco.

Unable to categorize by style, this contemporary interpretation on the California ranch rambles along a creek’s edge, gently rising and falling with the topography. A protected courtyard and a variety of outdoor spaces are perfect for family gatherings.

The home is a laboratory for sustainable building practices. Net zero energy, a gray water irrigation system, electric pump space heating, thermal solar water heating, on-site water collection, a holistic site design for daylighting, and passive temperature control.

Project Team:

  • Architecture, Fixtures, and Furnishings: Laraarchitecture

  • Landscape Architect: Envision Landscape Studio

  • General Contractor: Christenson Brothers Inc.

  • Structural Engineer: Anderson Engineering

Exterior view of Porta Luna house from the garden courtyard looking towards the entry gate
exterior architecture of porta luna house and custom gate
living-room-with-fireplace-and-vaulted-ceilings
living room with fireplace and vaulted ceilings with view of backyard
looking into large kitchen with island and dark cabinets
large luxury kitchen with island and open concept view of the living room at the porta luna house by Lara Dutto
dining room with large rectangle wood table
walk-in closet with built-in navy blue cabinets and drawers
walk-in closet with built-in navy blue cabinets and drawers
backyard patio with dining table and fireplace
view of two lounge chairs next to the swimming pool at the Porta Luna House
bocce ball court at the Porta Luna House
water fountain in a green, flowering garden at Porta Luna House
zen garden with stone path, water fountain, and statue of Buddha with the swimming pool in the background