Santa Ynez Organic Ranch

Moving from the city, these homebuilders bought a vacant lot in the country, allowing them to put their dreams and ideals to reality. KKLA sited the house and outdoor living spaces to take advantage of protection from afternoon sun and winds. The straw-bale construction and orientation of the house allow for indoor comfort during the hottest days, without the use of air-conditioning. Meanwhile, sustainable practices such as bio-swales and permeable paving complement the drought-tolerant landscape. The property now feels abundant and complete with native plants, wildflower meadows, fruit trees, and a vegetable garden, not to mention an organic vineyard, a lavender farm, a barn and horse paddocks, chickens and a faithful old lab. Photographed by Karin Kaufman