In the heart of Sonoma wine country, just down the road from Buena Vista Winery, Ridge Design has brought to life a home that feels at once grounded and elevated—like it was always meant to be there. Designed without a specific client in mind, Ventana Sonoma was imagined for someone who lives for slow mornings, long evenings, and the laid-back sophistication of wine country life. The result? A five-bedroom, six-bathroom custom home where calm design, thoughtful details, and an innate connection to the outdoors create an atmosphere of effortless ease.

At the center of the property is a quiet architectural gesture: a central courtyard that anchors the layout and allows nearly every room in the house to open up to the outdoors. “Our goal was to create a calm, welcoming retreat,” the designers share. “We used natural materials—Hemlock ceilings, limewashed walls, white oak cabinetry—to add warmth and texture. But it’s the courtyard that really brings the entire flow of the home to life.”

Drawing inspiration from the rolling hills and vineyards outside, Ridge Design leaned into an earthy, tonal palette and integrated subtle curvature throughout the interiors. Think arched doorways, rounded sofas, and custom sculptural details that soften the otherwise clean architectural lines. “Curves make a space feel more relaxed and inviting,” they say. “Whether it’s in the architecture or a piece of furniture, they bring a kind of warmth that really fits the wine country lifestyle.”

That sense of ease, however, is never without refinement. Ridge Design layered in Italian craftsmanship from brands like Saba Italia and Nicoline Italia, whose pieces are known for their sculptural elegance and longevity. These furnishings anchor the space in quiet luxury—proof that form and function can, and should, coexist.

Sustainability, too, is fully integrated—not an afterthought or aesthetic flourish. From locally sourced finishes to energy-efficient systems, rainwater capture, and solar panels, every decision was made with longevity and stewardship in mind. “Start with natural, durable materials that age well—wood, stone, lime plaster,” they suggest for readers looking to take the first step in eco-conscious design. “And think about how your home interacts with its environment. Even simple choices, like drought-tolerant landscaping or water catchment systems, can make a big difference.”

The garden, for instance, is a layered tapestry of native grasses, lavender, olive trees, and low-water greenery—designed to look lush, but function in harmony with California’s dry climate. “We wanted it to feel rich and relaxed without being high-maintenance,” they note. “It’s that balance that makes a garden feel truly lived-in.”

Even in its generous footprint, the home never feels impersonal. Ridge Design created intimate zones—pockets of softness, solitude, and gathering. “We imagined a young couple or family who loves to entertain, who values connection and style,” they say. “That helped guide the layout, the kitchen, the materials—even the art.” A particularly striking moment? The custom backlit headboard in the primary suite, which doubles as both artwork and architectural statement.

Design Tips from the Pros:

• To achieve a warm, tonal interior: Layer materials—mix wood, stone, and soft textiles in similar hues to avoid a flat or sterile look. Texture is key.
• To integrate curved furniture: Choose one or two rounded focal pieces and ground them with more linear forms—think arched chairs paired with structured rugs or coffee tables.
• To begin designing sustainably: Focus on materials that last. Avoid trends that will fade, and opt for finishes that gain character over time.

Ventana Sonoma isn’t just a beautiful home—it’s a blueprint for thoughtful living. One where modern lines meet rustic ease, where sustainability feels instinctive, and where design becomes a quiet celebration of place.