# Luxuriously Leveled Architecture CCS Architecture Builds the Mill Valley Residence in California By Jamie Danielle Munro | Published 2014-06-25 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ccs-architecture References: [contemporist](http://www.contemporist.com/2014/06/17/mill-valley-residence-by-ccs-architecture/) & [ccs-architecture](http://ccs-architecture.com/) CCS Architecture recently completed the Mill Valley Residence in California, and the results are stunning. The space takes on a [step-like look](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oak-house-1), with the roof slowly moving downwards with every level. The house is quite large at 5,000 square feet, giving the owners plenty of rooms to wander around and relax in. One of the main requirements that the owners had was that they wanted to stay connected to the nature that surrounded the lot, so to achieve this CCS Architecture used [large windows throughout](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/openspace-architecture). This way, the owners can take in the [surrounding views](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lagoon-view-residence), yet still stay protected from the elements. The redwood trees almost become part of the home, as they are a noticeable presence. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.2/10 - Popularity: 20% | Activity: 8% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Step-like Architecture:** The use of step-like designs in architecture provides a distinct visual appeal and may create new frameworks for sustainable housing. - **Nature-inspired Design:** Integrating the natural environment into architectural projects offers endless opportunities to create unique spaces that prioritize green living. - **Large Windows and Natural Light:** Incorporating ample natural light into architectural projects not only feels spacious and inviting, but also encourages eco-friendly and energy-efficient living. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Architecture:** As the demand for unique, eco-friendly living spaces increases, architects must prioritize sustainable designs that incorporate nature and prioritize energy efficiency. - **Homebuilding:** Home builders who prioritize eco-friendly, sustainable construction methods and utilize large open spaces can create unique, modern homes that prioritize energy-efficiency and sustainability. - **Interior Design:** With the popularity of open floor plans and large windows, interior designers have an opportunity to create bright, modern living spaces that incorporate nature and prioritize energy efficiency. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Ocean-Overlooking Perched Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/big-sur.md) - [Meadow-Overlooking Sleek Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/studioac-1.md) - [Minimal Mountain Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/caju-house.md) - [Contemporary Cantilevered Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/westview-residence.md) - [Hilltop Modern Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-cloud-house.md) - [Modern Mountainous Luxury Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robert-chisholm-architects.md) - [Faceted Cedar Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-house-on-a-hill.md) - [Sculpted Oak Grove Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lj-residence.md) - [Chilean Hillside Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/house-in-three-heights.md)