In the Martis Valley near the north shore of Lake Tahoe, at an elevation of about 6,300 feet, a two-acre field is covered in a dense forest of jeffery pine and sugar pine mixed with white and redwood. Forest House, designed by Design studio Faulkner Architects, is located there and slopes south with views of California's Northstar ski resort.

To reduce the impact on the site, the plan was designed as a simple rectangle surrounded by 115 trees between 60 and 90 feet tall. The long, narrow south-facing rectangle collects solar energy in winter. The 4,500-square-foot four-bedroom home is outfitted with radiant heat, enhanced glazing, mechanical electrical equipment and insulation, contributing to sustainable development in a low-maintenance scheme.

Material and Windows are arranged as dark light reverses, repeating the behavior of the forest. A hidden, directed entrance weaves time into the sequence, extending the experience and connecting it to the environment. Move along the route to the entry point, parallel to the form, allowing contact with the residence prior to entry. A translucent green glass facade bathes the entrance in a color associated with the tones of the surrounding evergreen forest.

Inside, continuous south-facing sliding glass opens up the living areas. Materials remain consistent throughout the house, including cut basalt floors, unfinished recycled teak ceilings and floors, slab concrete and white plaster. Continuous recesses in the ceiling hide light fixtures and fire sprinkler heads. Three-dimensional skylights wind down the walls from the roof, allowing light to pour in and providing a view of the stars at night.