open concept living room looking towards dining area and kitchen

The Goat Hill House

A phased project in Orinda, California that began with a kitchen remodel and a master plan, eventually included a 900-square-foot addition for an active family of five.

The simple gabled volume and the barn doors were inspired by the site which is nestled under a hillside grazed by goats. Spaces are entirely open and connected but can be closed off when Spongebob gets too loud.ﾠ Kid’s artwork and family postings occupy a primary display wall in the playroom. Children run everywhere; the doors to the backyard all but disappear.

The active and passive solar systems implemented have cut the home's energy usage by ½ even while the size of the home has doubled.ﾠ The radiant heat manifold system, rather than be tucked away in a closet, is celebrated as a piece of “working” sculpture. The architecture is designed to support a family that cooks, eats and plays together.

Press & Awards:

Sunset, 6.07:
Warm Kitchen Makeover, A designer combines the best of the old and new for an inviting contemporary look

Mayors Award for Excellence in Architecture, City of Orinda
Winner, 2008

Contra Costa Times, 11.08
Excellence in Design, City of Orinda recognizes outstanding Residential projects

architect Lara Dutto cuts watermelon in open concept kitchen while her two young sons draw at the kitchen table

–Sunset Magazine

detail shot of corner of kitchen island with barstools and cabinets and sink in background

–Sunset Magazine

looking into the living room from the open concept kitchen
inside the goat hill house by lara dutto looking at the dining table through to the living room
family room with seating area and children's artwork on a feature wall
mudroom with backpacks hanging on hooks and a half bath to the left
backyard with brick patio looking towards the back of the goat hill house with doors opened to the living room and kitchen
exterior view of front of goat hill house by Lara Dutto