The century-old home in San Diego’s University Heights neighbourhood needed to be restored, but a neighbouring geological feature put it between a rock and a hard place—the property’s footprint couldn’t be greatly expanded because a small canyon was immediately next door.

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
Andersen Windows & Doors’ E Series accordion-style doors open onto the pool area in the main hub. The flat roof is an excellent location for photovoltaic panels.

The house, which was built in 1927 as a series of segregated rooms, lacked fluidity. Despite this, the owners sought to keep the house’s original Spanish design. According to architect Tony Garcia of Asquared Studios, who planned the refurbishment, “they envisioned an open living room that connected to the back yard overlooking the canyon.”

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
With beautiful floor tiles, arched doors, and rich wood accents, the interior design plan honours the home’s Spanish-style construction.

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
The chosen site for family dinners is an attractive banquette that also serves as a WFH station.

 

A substantial extension was out of the question due to the home’s unusual location. The team came up with a way to improve the arrangement while only adding 39 square feet. The property was divided into three interconnected sections during the renovation: a main hub with the kitchen and bedrooms, a “entertaining zone” with a living room and pool access, and a secondary outside eating area.

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
Passive cooling is possible thanks to the home’s location above a canyon, where breezes may readily drift in.

 

“We were able to construct an open living layout that takes advantage of natural light with a very minimal addition,” Garcia adds. It’s no wonder that the property has become a favourite hangout spot for the homeowners’ friends and family, and its canyon-top location is ideal for maximising passive cooling measures and increasing energy efficiency.

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
When the Andersen Windows & Doors accordion-style glass doors are open, the backyard and the living room merge into one bright space.

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
The home was only expanded by 39 square feet in total, but it now seems completely different.

 

 

Photo by Chipper Hatter
The principal bathroom, which is decorated in a relaxing powder blue colour scheme, continues the home’s focus on unique tile work.

 

Karen Koijane, the owner, adds, “We appreciate being able to entertain, with enough of room for everyone to feel comfortable.” “The expanded spaces were especially helpful during the pandemic, when working and schooling from home became required.”