Finley Residence

In the prestigious Del Mar Mesa community, the Finley Residence stands as a compelling study in context-driven architecture, a luxury home designed not to simply occupy its site, but to emerge from it. The one-lot development plan navigates a challenging topography and a need for privacy by adopting a linear approach that elegantly follows the natural contours of the land.

The home’s most distinctive feature is its harmonious relationship with the hillside. A series of layered retaining walls, crafted from natural stone, appear to rise directly out of the slope, creating a visual and structural foundation that makes the residence look as if it has grown organically from the terrain itself. This thoughtful design respects the existing topography and preserves the panoramic ocean and sunset views for both the residents and their neighbors. The architectural narrative culminates at the central pool deck. Given the limited buildable area, the design concentrates the home’s primary views and outdoor living into this expansive space, creating a private oasis. Sweeping glass facades and a mix of warm materials, from stone to rich woods, blur the lines between inside and out. The result is a secluded, gated sanctuary where a powerful and contemporary architectural form is gracefully humbled by a profound respect for the beauty of its natural surroundings.

Developer: Mike Finley

Location: San Diego, California
Year of Completion: TBD
Project Type: Single Family Residential
Project Status: D-N-B