The new second story of the house elevates the house to street level

Hillsborough Contemporary House Expansion

Located in the scenic and upscale community of Hillsborough, CA, this renovation with addition embodies the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. This contemporary residence is designed to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings, offering a tranquil retreat that is both luxurious and effortlessly livable.

Bifold doors open up the great room to the outdoors

Indoor-Outdoor Living

At the heart of this residence is the concept of indoor-outdoor living. Large bifold glass doors and generous windows allow for unobstructed views of the landscape, flooding the interiors with natural light and fresh air. These features enable a smooth transition between the living spaces and outdoor areas, which include a multi-level deck, a covered patio, and a landscaped garden. The outdoor spaces are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, with comfortable seating areas, a built-in barbecue, and a fire pit.

The new open staircase provides a nice backdrop to the great room
Bifold doors completely open the back of the house on three levels

Central Great Room and Stairs

The expansive great room serves as the center of the home, combining the living, dining, and kitchen areas into one cohesive space. Bifold doors open the entire length of this room to the outdoor deck, expanding the sense of space beyond its physical boundaries. A glass partition functionally separates the staircase from the great room, with decorative wood paneling providing an attractive backdrop to the simply detailed stairs.

The kitchen has views of the dining and living spaces

Open Plan Interiors

The interiors are characterized by a modern aesthetic that emphasizes understated elegance. The open floor plan is spacious and unencumbered, while high ceilings and neutral tones create a clean, uncluttered atmosphere. The use of natural materials, such as hardwood floors and stone accents, adds warmth and texture to the contemporary design.

The kitchen and dining room open completely to the deck

Modern Kitchen Ambiance

The minimalist kitchen is designed for both functionality and style. White lacquer cabinets and marble finishes blend with and complement the clean aesthetic. New skylights and raised wood ceiling accentuate the space with natural overhead lighting, creating a distinct ambiance within the great room. The kitchen's large island with seating and ample storage, is complemented by high-quality appliances and fixtures, providing a beautiful and practical space for culinary enthusiasts.

The main level combines the kitchen, dining and living into one open space
The family room opens to and connects the front and side yards

Stylish Transformation

An existing garage was dramatically transformed into a new family room, featuring bifold doors on both the front and back walls that offer passage from the front to the side yard. Adding to its allure, a stylish modern gas fireplace serves as a focal point while efficiently providing warmth in this open and airy room.

The family room has a linear gas fireplace and opens to an outdoor seating area
The master bedroom has bifold doors that open to a private terrace

Serene Bedrooms with En-suite Baths

The master suite offers a private retreat with an upper level outdoor deck, a luxurious en-suite bathroom, and a large walk-in closet. Four additional bedrooms are designed with comfort and privacy in mind, each featuring large windows that bring in natural light and provide picturesque garden views. All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms that are equipped with modern fixtures and high-end finishes, creating spa-like sanctuaries.

The master bathroom has a vessel tub, two-person shower and generous vanity
The new second story and renovation modernizes the house design

A New Story Elevates the Design

Located on an elongated triangular lot, this house's design is meticulously crafted to optimize space utilization without altering the existing footprint. The addition of a new third story enhances views of the downhill house from the street, while a comprehensive renovation rejuvenates the residence to cater to modern lifestyles.

The back of the house opens to decks on three levels

Multi-story Panoramic Views

Expansive glass facades at the rear of the house open on three levels to decks and patios, offering panoramic views throughout the home. The use of stone, stucco, and metal not only elevates visual appeal but also promotes ease of maintenance and sustainability.

The new upper story addition greatly enhances the street view of the house

Maximizing Energy Efficiency

The house design optimizes natural daylighting and cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling. With durable metal roofing, high-performance windows, and advanced insulation, the home maximizes energy efficiency. Native landscaping conserves water and pervious paving facilitates site drainage. These sustainable strategies not only reduce environmental impact but also improve the home's efficiency and comfort.


The Hillsborough house expansion balances modern luxury with natural beauty. Designed to foster a deep connection with the environment, this residence offers a unique living experience that embraces the best of both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Clerestory windows illuminate the fireplace in the master bedroom
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Facts

5256 Sf

Three Stories

5 Bedrooms

5 Baths + 2 Powders

Contractor

D&A Builders

Landscape

Design Intent

Photography

Ed Caldwell

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