The Butterfly House: Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Timeless Architectural Treasure
Nestled prominently along the rugged shoreline of Carmel Point, the iconic Butterfly House stands out as one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s most cherished architectural landmarks. Renowned for its captivating mid-century modern design, this extraordinary residence captures the imagination with its distinctive silhouette, innovative form, and seamless integration into the dramatic California coast.
Designed in 1951 by architect Francis W. Wynkoop, the Butterfly House was conceived with a visionary approach that continues to resonate today. The home’s name derives from its graceful, butterfly-wing-shaped roofline, designed to echo the gentle yet strikingly powerful shape of a butterfly preparing for flight. This unique roof design isn't merely aesthetic—it intentionally maximizes natural light and frames panoramic ocean views, creating an immersive coastal experience.
At approximately 3,700 square feet, the Butterfly House blends luxurious living with mid-century simplicity. It features three spacious bedrooms and four-and-a-half elegantly updated bathrooms. Large expanses of glass stretch along the ocean-facing facade, bringing the Pacific Ocean’s spectacular blues and greens into every room. Inside, the sunken living area, complete with custom-built seating, creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing while savoring the ever-changing coastal vistas. Each element within the home has been thoughtfully crafted to emphasize its proximity to the sea, resulting in a tranquil yet invigorating living environment.
One of the Butterfly House’s greatest appeals is its rare oceanfront setting. Perched directly on a granite bluff, it is among only a few Carmel properties to offer genuine oceanfront living. This prime location ensures unobstructed views from Point Lobos to Pebble Beach and provides daily encounters with dramatic sunsets and the rhythmic sounds of waves breaking below. It’s a truly remarkable vantage point, accentuating the home’s exceptional architectural allure.
Over the years, the Butterfly House has undergone meticulous restoration and updating, notably by renowned designer Jamie Bush, who has expertly preserved its mid-century charm while enhancing contemporary comforts. Upgrades have revitalized the property’s iconic kidney-shaped pool, its secluded interior courtyard, and the surrounding landscape, always with deep respect for the original architectural integrity.
Celebrated in architectural circles globally, the Butterfly House has appeared prominently in publications such as Architectural Digest and has been consistently admired by design enthusiasts. Its unique blend of innovative construction, environmental harmony, and stylish simplicity solidifies its place among the most admired residences in California.
Whether admired from a scenic stroll along Carmel Point or viewed from within its spectacular interior spaces, the Butterfly House remains an enduring testament to creative brilliance and the timeless allure of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s dramatic coastline.
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Written by Josh Whitaker from HappyWriters.co
