Farmhouses in Napa Valley

Today, dear readers, we are going to have a look at two farmhouses, both in Napa Valley. The first one was built in the 1890s. Northern California-based architect Howard J. Backen renewed it and the interior design was in charge of Backen Gillam Architects.

Photography by Erhard Pfeiffer

Wide openings, screen porches and pocket doors are Backen trademarks.


A spacious kitchen and dining area at the rear of the rebuilt farmhouse. It has a screen porch that overlooks the pool area. Hundred-year-old wood from a barn in Eureka was used for the floors. Cabinetry conceals Sub-Zero refrigerator drawers.


Bare floors and quilted fabrics give the bedroom a casual feel.


View of the rear end of the house.

And now we go on to have a look at the architect's own house also located in Napa Valley. This time the interiors were designed by his wife Lori O’Kane Backen.

Photography by Erhard Pfeiffer

Wicker chairs are to be seen in most of the rooms.


Open floor plan for the kitchen, dining room and sitting area.


A chaise lounge and armchair facing the fireplace add to the comfort of the master bedroom. The rafters were left exposed as a nod to farmhouse architecture. An oversize window provides a stunning view.


Pocket doors—which remain open much of the year—separate the living area from the veranda. A set of pocket screens allows the area to be closed off from the outside as the weather dictates.


For the covered porch off the poolhouse, the couple paired a zinc table of the architect’s design with wicker chairs. .


The poolhouse, which doubles as a guesthouse, “shares the same architectural details as barns,” says Howard Backen. Sited a short distance below the main house, the structure also serves as his home office. “My daughter, Annie, and I draw together there,” he says.

I featured this post at the furniture MckLinky party hosted by Miss Mustard Seed. Hop over to see more posts on furniture!

All images and information from Architectural Digest.

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