Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel

  • Project: Caterpillar House
  • Architect: Feldman Architecture
  • Location: United States, Carmel-by-the-sea, California
  • Year: 2010
  • Area: 260 m2

Nestled within the rolling hills of the Santa Lucia Preserve in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, the Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern design and environmental stewardship. Completed in 2010, this 2,800-square-foot residence reinterprets the classic California ranch house with a contemporary, eco-conscious approach.

Design Inspired by the Landscape

The home’s sinuous, low-profile form follows the natural contours of the site, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Expansive south-facing glass doors open the main living area to a covered porch and patio, facilitating natural ventilation and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Sustainable Features and Materials

Caterpillar House is notable for being the first LEED Platinum-certified custom home on California’s Central Coast. Its sustainable features include:

  • Rammed earth walls constructed from on-site soil, providing thermal mass to regulate indoor temperatures.

  • An 8-kW photovoltaic system supplying the home’s energy needs.

  • A 27,300-gallon rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation.

  • Use of reclaimed and low-VOC materials, such as reclaimed wine cork flooring and recycled composite quartzite countertops.

Recognition and Cultural Impact

Caterpillar House has received multiple accolades, including the AIA San Francisco Design Citation for Energy & Sustainability and the Builder Magazine Grand Award for custom homes under 3,500 square feet.

The home’s architectural significance also extended to popular culture; it served as the sole filming location for the 2021 movie Malcolm & Marie, starring Zendaya and John David Washington.

Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture
Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture: A Sustainable Ranch Retreat in Carmel
Photography © Courtesy of Feldman Architecture

Posted by Feldman Architecture

Feldman Architecture is a San Francisco-based architecture and interiors studio known for thoughtful, site-sensitive, and sustainable design. Guided by professionalism, collaboration, and passion, the firm creates soulful spaces that respond to both people and place. Their integrated process blends architecture and interior design, delivering cohesive and refined results. Sustainability is at the core of their practice—from establishing carbon budgets to designing award-winning LEED Platinum and Net-Zero Energy homes like Caterpillar House and Santa Cruz Haus. As a signatory of the AIA 2030 Commitment and a Just-certified organization, Feldman Architecture leads the industry in regenerative design and social responsibility. Their collaborative culture fosters creativity, mentorship, and a strong sense of community—inside and outside the studio.