Cornish House: A Masterclass in Modern Coastal Architecture by Brett Farrow

The Cornish House is a modern coastal home in Encinitas, Southern California, designed by Brett Farrow Architect.

Modern Architecture on a Challenging Coastal Site

Perched on a scenic hilltop in the Southern California community of Encinitas,

the Cornish House is a sophisticated two-bedroom residence designed by Brett Farrow Architect. While the exterior presents a calm and considered aesthetic, a closer look reveals a home shaped entirely by its environment.

The project proves that a compact footprint is no barrier to luxury. By embracing the site’s unique geometry, the architect transformed a challenging, small parcel of land into a purposeful home that maximizes sweeping ocean views and natural light.

Endless blue: A glass-railed deck designed for uninterrupted coastal views

A Calm Arrival Away From the Street

At the front of the home, a custom entry gate sets a clear boundary between the busy street and the private world beyond. Complementing this, low concrete walls guide visitors inward while helping shield the house from traffic noise. Beyond these physical barriers, a water feature adds another layer of separation. Ultimately, the gentle sound creates a subtle hush that softens the transition from street to home and reinforces the quiet, contemplative feel of the garden spaces surrounding the entry.

Architectural Language: Beams, Overhangs, and Ribbon Windows

The Cornish House utilizes a distinct architectural vocabulary that celebrates structural honesty.

Horizontal Presence and Solar Control

Large roof overhangs are a key feature, managing Southern California’s intense sunlight while giving the structure a strong horizontal silhouette. Exposed wood beams add organic texture, softening the sharp, modern lines of the design.

Framing the Coastal Landscape

In addition, strategically placed ribbon windows are woven into the facade. These windows serve two purposes; firstly, they flood the interior with natural light and, secondly, they frame specific ‘snapshots’ of the surrounding coastal environment. In doing so, they ensure the home feels connected to the Pacific Ocean.

The Reverse Floor Plan: Maximizing Ocean Views

One of the most innovative aspects of this modern home design is its reverse floor plan. This layout flips traditional residential design to prioritize the site’s best assets:

1. Upper Level (Social Hub): The kitchen, dining, and living areas are located on the top floor. This elevation captures the strongest natural light and the most expansive ocean vistas.

2. Lower Level (Private Retreat): The two bedrooms are tucked away on the ground floor. Both rooms open directly onto private courtyard gardens, offering a sheltered, indoor-outdoor experience that contrasts with the airy openness of the floor above.

Interior Design: Industrial Accents and Warm Materials

Inside, the architecture remains “honest.” Structural supports and beams are left exposed, becoming integral design features rather than being hidden behind drywall.

In the living area, a double-sided low fireplace acts as a functional anchor. Specifically, it connects the split-level dining and living spaces without obstructing the open-concept flow. At the same time, dark metal window frames with tapered geometric forms provide a bold contrast against the warm interior finishes, ultimately balancing modern industrialism with coastal comfort.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

The transition between the interior and the landscape is blurred through the use of bi-folding doors.

• The Rooftop Deck: The dining area extends onto a spacious deck located on the rooftop of the garage.

• Functional Integration: By transforming the garage roof into usable outdoor space, the architect effectively increased the home’s footprint, providing a premium spot for sunset views.

Though located in a relatively dense neighborhood, the Cornish House manages to feel both private and open. Ultimately, through a reverse floor plan, exposed structure, and a careful relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, Brett Farrow Architect has created a coastal home that feels remarkably calm and practical.

Project Credits:

• Architect & Builder: Brett Farrow Architect, Inc.

• Photography: Paul Rivera Architectural Photography

• Landscape Design: Falling Waters Landscape

• Engineering: Dodd & Associates

The Cornish House is a masterclass in modern coastal design, where architect Brett Farrow transformed a challenging, trapezoidal site into a seamless sanctuary. By utilizing a reverse floor plan, the design elevates social spaces to the top floor to capture panoramic ocean views while tucking private quarters into quiet lower-level gardens. The project excels through its “structural honesty,” using raw materials like Western Red Cedar and exposed timber beams to blend durability with warmth. Ultimately, it achieves a perfect balance between privacy and openness, proving that strategic architectural solutions—like multi-functional decks and acoustic water features—can turn site constraints into unique design triumphs.