The Ashland Residence by Dimster Architecture sits atop a hill, offering expansive views of Santa Monica Bay. This single-family home occupies a corner lot, presenting unique opportunities for design and orientation. The architects’ L-shaped layout maximizes privacy from the streets while opening the interior to natural light and garden spaces, embodying Southern California’s hallmark indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
The timber-clad residence comprises two distinct structures, defined by curved architectural elements that soften the building’s form. A sunken living room with ten-foot sliding doors on two sides creates an open connection to the gardens while serving as a passive cooling solution. This design approach supports multiple functions, offering flexible spaces for entertaining, meditation, work, and hobbies, as well as the potential for multi-generational living.
images courtesy Dimster Architecture
ashland residence: a house divided in two
The team at Dimster Architecture designs a concealed stairway, positioned behind an open screen, to provide access to the Ashland Residence’s second floor. The master suite spans the entire width of the building, while other bedrooms offer serene treetop views. The exterior features classic wood siding with a rain-screen design. This element serves three key functions: ventilating and protecting the wood for durability, providing insulation against temperature changes, and acting as an effective sound barrier.
The Ashland Residence offers two primary entry points, each creating a distinct experience. The formal front entry leads through a garden filled with native plants to create a welcoming and serene threshold. Alternatively, a side gate between the two structures provides access under a trellised canopy, offering direct entry to the kitchen or the yard and pool area.
the Ashland Residence offers views across Santa Monica bay
unified spaces by dimster architecture
Throughout its Ashland Residence, Dimster Architecture carefully curates a palette of materials and textures to create a unified and calming interior environment. The thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, combined with flexible living arrangements and sustainable design elements, positions the Ashland Residence as a model for contemporary living in Santa Monica. Dimster Architecture’s thoughtful approach to design at Ashland Residence highlights how thoughtful planning and creative architectural solutions can elevate everyday living.
the L-shaped floorplan lends privacy, natural light, and garden access
two structures feature curved architectural elements for softened forms
the sunken living room opens onto gardens for passive cooling
wood siding with a rain-screen design adds insulation and durability
cohesive materials and textures create a calming interior environment
the master suite spans the building while other bedrooms have treetop views
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project info:
name: Ashland Residence
architect: Dimster Architecture | @dimsterarchitecture
location: Santa Monica, California
lead architect: Don Dimster
interior consultant: Lillian Lim
structural design: James Tuchscher
area: 3,546 square feet
completion: 2023
photography: courtesy Dimster Architecture
kat barandy I designboom
feb 07, 2025
