Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, ROCHE + ROCHE Landscape Architecture blends Mediterranean elegance with a modern outdoor living experience to capture panoramic vineyard views.
Near close proximity to the charming towns of Yountville and St. Helena, this landscape naturally lends itself to relaxation, offering an ideal canvas to craft an elevated outdoor retreat.
The homeowners, drawn to the property for its stunning vistas and prime location, envisioned an outdoor space that seamlessly balanced contemporary design with the estate’s existing Mediterranean character.
Transforming the landscape to achieve this vision, the layout was refined and elements were introduced to maximize both aesthetics and function.
A defining feature of the project was the complete reconfiguration of the pool area.
The existing pool was removed and replaced with a larger, more dynamic water feature that includes a deep end, a Baja shelf for lounging, an integrated spa, and an infinity edge that visually merges with the valley and beyond.
To ensure effortless maintenance while preserving the sleek design, an automatic pool cover was installed to eliminate the hassle of manually covering and uncovering the pool.
At the deep end of the pool, a cocoon-like daybed rests on carefully placed limestone pavers, offering a sculptural yet inviting focal point.
Flanked by Lomandra grasses, the setting exudes both modernity and natural harmony.
Meanwhile, at the shallow end, a sunken ‘living room’ was introduced with custom-built daybeds and umbrellas, positioning it to perfectly frame the breathtaking Napa Valley scenery.
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Beyond the pool terrace, the estate transitions into a Douglas Fir forest, adding a serene woodland contrast to the open vineyard landscape.
Here, a custom steel fire pit is designed as an evening retreat, purposefully placed for sunset viewing.
As the sun dips behind the rolling hills, the fire pit becomes a focal point for relaxation, encouraging intimate gatherings and quiet reflection at the close of each day.
This seamless integration of luxury, landscape, and lifestyle defines this home—a project that not only enhances the property’s usability but also deepens the connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Ensuring that every element is thoughtfully designed–from the pool’s edge to the fireside retreat, to the linear but integrated walkways that lengthen the views of the property–invites its homeowners and visitors to fully embrace the natural beauty of Napa Valley.
From all angles, this project exemplifies the creation of therapeutic environments that cater to specific user needs, incorporating features like organic vegetable gardens and orchards to support a life of purpose for its residents.
ROCHE + ROCHE’s dedication to regional appropriateness is evident in their selection of materials and design elements that resonate with the local climate, landscape, and culture.
Often utilizing local building materials and craftspeople, their projects result in resilient outdoor spaces that thrive with minimal maintenance.
Their designs are intentionally shaped to amplify the calming influence of nature’s gentle shifts, a concept known as “soft fascination.” Guided by the principle of “unify…simplify…amplify,” they refine each space by removing the extraneous and highlighting what is unique and impactful.
Landscape Architecture: ROCHE + ROCHE
Interior Designer: Rambeau Designs
Construction: Trainor Builders
Landscape Construction: Siteworks Landscape, Inc.
Pool Construction: Diamond Quality Pools
Photography: Eileen Roche Photography
