Project of the Week: Ridge Residence

Photos: Dan Arnold & Joe Fletcher

Striking Cedar Sunscreen Defines this Stunning Sherman Oaks Home

Architect: Hsu McCullough
Structural Engineer: Parker Resnick Structural Engineering
General Contractor: Dynamic Builders of Southern California

Designed by architects Peggy Hsu and Chris McCullough of Hsu McCullough as their primary residence, this stunning Sherman Oaks home stands as a testament to the seamless blend of natural beauty with design innovation. 

Tucked away on the northern reaches of the Santa Monica Mountains, the couple’s modern marvel offers breathtaking views of Fossil Ridge Park, with its rolling hills, ancient oaks, and diverse wildlife. Yet, it’s the eye-catching Western Red Cedar sunscreen that truly sets this residence apart. This striking architectural feature has garnered admiration from those who pass by, inspiring many to incorporate the distinctive charm of Western Red Cedar narrow cuts into their own projects.

“The cedar sunscreen at the front is an undeniable focal point,” explains McCullough. “It’s rare that such extensive use of wood doesn’t just capture the eye but also complements the surrounding mid-century homes with its understated elegance.”

The sunscreen—a magnificent structure standing 15 feet high and stretching 60 feet in length—is crafted from 3×6 Western Red Cedar planks, meticulously attached to a sleek black steel frame. The design thoughtfully aligns each wooden slat with its neighbor, creating a harmonious play of light and shadow, while ensuring privacy from the outside world. 

McCullough further explains the selection of Western Red Cedar, noting its ability to enrich the surrounding materials. “The charcoal-colored stucco finds its perfect match in the cedar’s warm hues. The vibrant greens of the foliage and the soft tones of nearby flowers further enhance its appeal,” he says.

“And the graceful way cedar ages can’t be beat,” he adds, referring to how unfinished cedar eventually turns a beautiful silvery gray patina.

Not only does the cedar facade create a visual impact, it helps protect the unshielded dwelling from the elements.

“With the home located on a ridge top, it is exposed to wind through parts of the day as well as the occasional brief rolling fog in the morning during the autumn and winter months,” McCullough explains, highlighting cedar’s top-performing attributes including natural resistance to rot, decay and insects. 

In addition to creating a profound indoor-outdoor connection, the screen had also contributed to the firm’s business. “The Western Red Cedar brise soleil is a show stopper,” McCullough says. “We’ve probably sold thousands of linear feet of cedar just from all the neighbors and clients asking about, or complimenting, the exterior wood facade.”

WRC Specifications
Grade: Select Knotty
Size: 3×6 x 15 feet lengths
Fastening: Stainless steel
Applied Finish:Transparent Stain