Modern Home Builders Issue 143 | Page 126

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
tub. The deck is finished in reclaimed Fijian mahogany, with custom glass-and-steel railings that preserve panoramic views while offering wind protection and elegance.
“ What makes this project my favorite isn’ t just the architecture or engineering, but the complete journey,” Devon states.“ From the first site meeting to the housewarming party, and then another gathering one year later with 70 guests enjoying the new deck under soft lights, it was a collaborative process grounded in trust, vision, and shared pride in the result.”
Award-winning project
Vought recently won an award for its work on the Buena Vista Residence; a 1936 home perched on the edge of the old Dunn- Spring Quarry in North Berkeley.“ This was one of the most technically complex and historically sensitive projects we’ ve undertaken, and it’ s something we’ re incredibly proud of,” Devon states.“ The original home was just 1100 square feet, but to create the expanded living space the homeowners envisioned, we developed a cantilevered addition that extends eight feet over the cliffside.
“ What made this project award-worthy wasn’ t just the engineering, but the preservation ethos behind every decision, as the homeowners and architect were deeply committed to honoring the home’ s original character. We sourced old-growth redwood to match the exterior siding, handmade tiles, and wide-plank oak floors to blend seamlessly with the existing architecture, and we even commissioned a local ironsmith to recreate the original 90-year-old ironwork. This was more than an addition; it was a restoration that bridged eras. The project received recognition from the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association and stands as a testament to what’ s possible when craftsmanship, structural ingenuity, and preservation come together.”
Chasing excellence
Vought is currently in the process of building one of its most ambitious projects – a ground-up custom home on Shirley Drive in the Oakland Hills.“ This is a flagship project for 2025, and we’ re excited to see it take shape,” Devon explains.“ It’ s a technically challenging site with deep excavation, complex retaining walls, and a sharp elevation drop that requires precision at every stage. This project really reflects where Vought Construction is heading, pushing the limits of site engineering while delivering a curated, luxury client experience.
“ The design is bold: dramatic volumes, expansive glazing, and thoughtful integration of indoor-outdoor living spaces that capture the hillside views. We’ re working closely with the architect and consultants to resolve structural conditions early in preconstruction, coordinating everything from the elevator shaft to the future mechanical systems and even a dog wash station in the mudroom.
126