V-shaped roofs cover each of the three pavilions that make up this Californian residence by US studio Feldman Architecture, which was constructed in an environmentally sensitive private community.

The Butterfly House is located in the Santa Lucia Preserve, a private development near the seaside town of Carmel. Only 10 per cent of the 20,000-acre (8,094-hectare) neighbourhood can be built upon, as the rest is set aside for land conservation.

The hilly area features native grasslands and wildflowers, along with oak, redwood and pine trees.
"The clients were meticulous in the selection of the site, searching for two years for a spectacular piece of land that was flat enough to accommodate living on one level," said San Francisco-based Feldman Architecture.
The clients wanted a retirement home that befit the area's natural beauty and had space to accommodate visits from grown children. A modern aesthetic, indoor-outdoor living opportunities and separate areas for guests were among the specific requests.

During an initial meeting, the clients mentioned a vision of butterflies fluttering around the surrounding meadows, which in turn influenced the home's design.
"Sitting lightly on the land, the house is divided into three pavilions that are topped by expressive butterfly roofs," the team said.

The central pavilion houses the main public functions and is connected by a bridge structure to a pavilion containing the master suite. During the rainy season, st...