Perched in the heart of Lake Arrowhead, CA, "Bern Double-A" is a masterfully crafted residential renovation that embodies a blend of the firm's signature minimalist sophistication and warm coziness. This project began with a derelict 1970s cabin, reimagined to capitalize on the A-frame wooden structure.
After an extensive search for an appropriate structure, Dan Brunn, FAIA, conceived plans to transform the space into a unique "double A-frame." The cross "T shape" of the design lent itself perfectly to this geometric exercise. Essential to the design is a careful weaving of old and new, to maintain a period-correct sensibility throughout the interior spaces. The biggest design alteration was the addition of a window wall along the short axis to open the loft space and enhance the overall spatial experience and thereby creating the signature double-A Frame.
A purposeful, restrained material palette achieves the timeless aesthetic for which DBA is known. Existing wooden beams and ceilings were sandblasted using walnut shells, maintaining the integrity of the wood, then lightly stained and sealed to create a smooth texture that matches the new wooden flooring. Materials, light, color, and texture symbolize unique spaces. The main circulation core is clad in a dark navy blue, coordinating with the porcelain penny tile, carpet, and soft-touch Fenix laminate cabinetry. This tone is echoed in the exterior wooden siding and decks, providing a strong contrast with the light wooden bedrooms and common spaces.
The house is laid out within three floors: the ground floor serves as the main sleeping area, mechanical and services, the second floor hosts public spaces and one guest suite, while the third floor is an entertaining and sleeping loft. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by warmth and sophistication, inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese design.
Interior spaces are thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light, ventilation, and breathtaking forest views. The open-plan living area—featuring a minimalist kitchen, spacious dining area, and cozy living room—flows seamlessly toward the surrounding nature. The sleek A-frame structure blends harmoniously into the picturesque surroundings, with cleverly positioned openings that create a sense of unity with nature. The use of lines, textures, and materials ensures a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing residents to fully immerse themselves in their environment.
The cathedral-like living room features a unique layout, anchored by a wood-burning fireplace clad in tumbled boulder on one end and tall glass windows with forest views on the other. A semi-circular sofa connects to the fireplace while capturing forest views and providing a direct line of sight to the television mounted on a wood-clad wall. The space is illuminated by hidden cove lighting that bathes the vaulted ceiling in a warm glow.
Transitioning from the living room to the dining area, the architect carefully matched the dining table to the wooden floors, creating a subtle connection to the kitchen. The two-tone kitchen, inspired by 1970s materials and details, has been updated thoughtfully. One half features white Fenix soft-touch laminate cabinets and Dekton countertops, while the other half integrates into the wall with dark blue-grey Fenix laminate. Dan emphasizes, "It was important to balance new and old to maintain the period-correct essence of the cabin." The cabinets include a thin dark border reminiscent of 70s kitchens, with custom wooden door pulls matching other features throughout.
Ascending to the third-floor loft, visitors are captivated by the soaring cathedral ceilings and surrounding forest views. The loft is enhanced by two linear coves of light, with a new window at the end designed to frame the forest beyond, echoing the existing glass in the living room below. Unlike the other spaces, the floors are fully carpeted, imparting a soft character to this playful room. Built-in cabinetry houses an extensive collection of period-correct artifacts, including a turntable and vinyl records, while mid-century inspired furnishings and a Noguchi Akari lantern complete the space.
Between the second and ground floors are bedrooms designed as serene retreats, featuring plush area rugs, soft fabric-lined wall coverings, wooden flooring, and matching Scandinavian furnishings. Each of the three rooms has unique elements, with the primary bedroom offering a cozy reading nook adorned in Porsche x Backdrop Irish Green siding, contrasted by a velvet sofa. Wall sconces and floor lamps provide a soft glow along the fabric curtains.
The Arrowhead Double A-Frame is a thoughtfully executed work of interior design and architecture, seamlessly blending style, comfort, and natural beauty. Sustainability has always been at the forefront of Dan's approach. Here, reducing waste and preserving existing structures was paramount. A minimal design strategy involved making only essential framing changes and leaving existing materials undisturbed. The exterior of the house remains unchanged to avoid further waste, while upgraded windows and doors, new insulation, an ultra-efficient heat-pump system, low-flow plumbing, and high-efficiency LEDs contribute to a significantly improved sustainable design.
About
Dan Brunn Architecture designs and develops commercial and residential projects worldwide. Formed in 2005, DBA prides itself on crafting architecture that respects the site and provokes a sensuous interaction with the environment. DBA focuses on purposeful modernism that heightens the user’s understanding and connection with the space. Every project DBA creates is dedicated to clean modernism, where function is purposeful and aesthetic becomes inherent. The synergy of the two creates unique, timeless and truly experiential spaces.
