The Yao Residence is a custom-designed mountain modern home located in the gated community of St. James’ Village, nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada near Reno, Nevada. The project reflects a deep commitment to contextual sensitivity, environmental stewardship, and refined residential design. The 7,705 -square-foot home was conceived as a retreat for a multigenerational family, balancing privacy, openness, and a strong connection to nature. Design Intentions and Program Requirements The client’s vision centered on creating an artistic, contemporary home that embraced the surrounding forested landscape while providing flexible spaces for family life, creative work, and hospitality. Program requirements included a spacious great room, a private primary suite, guest accommodations, a dedicated golf simulator room, and outdoor living areas with a coy pond. The design responds with a linear plan that steps aggressively with the site’s natural slope, preserving views and minimizing grading. Budget and Resolution Aspects Working within a budget of $3.2 million, the design team prioritized performance, durability, and timeless materials. Strategic decisions—such as using large format tile floors with radiant heating and a south facing 16’ high glass wall—allowed for long-term value without sacrificing aesthetic quality. Site Constraints and Contextual Relevance The site presented both opportunity and challenge: a heavily wooded parcel with dramatic topography and strict HOA design guidelines. The home’s low-slung rooflines and natural material palette were carefully developed to meet community standards while expressing a distinct architectural identity. The building is oriented to capture southern light and mountain views, with deep overhangs and clerestory windows enhancing passive solar performance and daylighting. Innovative Design Details The residence features a hybrid structural system of steel and engineered wood, allowing for expansive spans and open interiors without compromising thermal performance. A central hearth anchors the great room, while floor-to-ceiling glass doors blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. The art studio, located in a quiet wing of the home, includes north-facing glazing and operable clerestories for ideal light and ventilation. Sustainability is embedded throughout. The building envelope exceeds energy code requirements, and mechanical systems include zoned heating and cooling with smart controls. Rainwater harvesting infrastructure and native landscaping reduce water use and support local ecology. Materials were selected for low environmental impact, including reclaimed wood accents, low-VOC finishes, and recycled-content insulation. Historical Influences While contemporary in form, the Yao Residence draws subtle inspiration from Wright’s Falling Water, evident in its large deck overhangs, modern detailing, massing and emphasis on natural materials. This blend of modern and traditional sensibilities creates a home that feels both grounded and forward-looking. Conclusion The Yao Residence exemplifies Frame Architecture’s approach to residential design: thoughtful, site-responsive, and deeply personal. It is a home that honors its setting, supports its inhabitants, and elevates everyday living through architectural clarity and craftsmanship.