Hidden Zen

San Francisco, Ca - This is probably one of the most unique property locations that we have ever photographed. We couldn't find it. It's not even on a street. It's hidden away, surrounded by multiple other buildings, with no access except thru an underground parking structure. Pretty far out.

First view when entering from the underground garage.

This home was built in the 1990's so Merge was hired to modernize the whole property by designing an outdoor living space & zen garden... in the front yard? Not really sure.

This is 12 gauge core-tin metal edging that lines the entry point.

High retaining walls separate the neighbors on every side, so green space could be added vertically with wall planters and fast growing trees.

Core-tin planter walls with custom lighting.

Blue slate was installed to create a smooth walking surface and transition into the wood decking that leads you to the front door.

Folded core-tin edge on raised rock garden. (Incredible craftsmanship!)

Seating walls with custom lighting were built around the perimeter of the space and a natural gas fire bowl adds warmth and light for entertaining in cooler weather.

Overall view of the entire space including the outdoor kitchen and wet bar.

Copper has to be one of my favorite materials, as it oxidizes each piece becomes unique and no two pieces look alike. It also looks amazing next to wood. Copper pipe details were added to the entry staircase on three sides. Merge also designed and built a custom bench into the stairs. Made out of california redwood, the piece has a solid blue slate bench, holds rain boots and adds privacy. Also, the home has three basement bedrooms so a terraced green space was created to enable light and lush views to those underground. Brilliant execution in my opinion.

Detail images of the copper piping used in the construction of the stairs and the basement terraced garden.

Simple lighting design makes a world of difference. More warm color LED lighting was added sparingly yet it adds so much to the overall feel of the space.

Steel pocket lights were installed under the slate so you get a lit counter top without blinding the chef.

A custom table top was designed to convert the fire bowl into a table when it's not being used. You can also see more of the core-tin edging details and the up-lighting used on the orange planter bowl which acts as a focal point in the space.

Detail of seating area with table.

Lance shot this image while I was moving furniture, and I love this perspective. In fact, Merge Studio used this image on their holiday card and Lance was so pleased with himself.

Downward view from the stairs showing the cedar decking and the terraced basement garden. Shot by @voder ;)

These are Cary and Amy Bush, owners of Merge Studio. They put in two consecutive 10 hr days prepping this space for photography and, even though they are exhausted, their eyes still sparkle. These are some beautifully kind and talented humans right here.

(Merge has two more full time designers who weren't able to come to the photo shoot... Mark Johnson designed the entry bench and Josho Somine designed all of the lighting and permaculture layout.)

Cary and Amy Bush of Merge Studio

Annnd... It's a wrap!
The homeowner, the interior designer, the art director, Cary and Amy, and @voder posed for one last shot right before all the days props were consumed, more food was ordered, and wine bottles were opened for real.

Merge Studio is based out of Sabastopol California, you can see more of their amazing work here.

'Hidden Zen' - by Merge Studio