Our Story

 

Elements really began on a walk in the Castro District of San Francisco. I noticed a property for sale, and something about the picture, and its description got my attention.  On my first visit, I knew there was something unique about this property.

Lee Julien and his partner bought the property in 2000, and began contruction in 2001.  Originally the property was a campsite, for logging and summer vacations. There was a small outside kitchen built of river rock with a small shower. The campers even built a firepit with a gimbled kettle, and the site was accessed by a steep narrow dirt road. Once Lee and Robert started initial clearing, they realized that the house’s positons needed to be changed to capture the view. The rest of the compound fell into place, almost naturally after that decision. The old campsite and firepit, became the center point of entertainment for the compound.  What I have enjoyed most about Elements is the way it inspired so many of its own transformations over the last year and a half. Our designer, Wade Hine immediately was sensitive to the natural color palate. Wade also introduced older, recycled elements into the design. Old turkey cages from India, were re-invented as lamp shades as an example. Steel Geisha did all of our custom steel fabrication, and then proceeded to “age” them to work within our design. They did a stupendous job with both the barn door and our candle chandelier in the main room. Anastastia Waterfield, did the final installation work on the property.

All of us were constantly on the alert for items that could serve another purpose at Elements. One of the biggest finds was at the nearby Berry’s Saw Mill.  We were still searching for the perfect outdoor table to join the old campsite. Jeffery found an immense slab of center cut redwood at the mill, discarded because of imperfections. A few days later it was delivered to the property, but even then it took eight men to move it into position in the grove.  The table now weathers in place, and the imperfections for the mill, have become character to us.

One of the biggest transformations came through the decision to landscape and light the compound. Rick Taylor Elder Creek Landscaping was inspired by the potential.  The compound was transformed over a two month period. Rick brought in native grasses (californicas) and ferns, and even rebuilt and landscaped the pond. He also designed and installed our impressive lighting system, which makes the compound at night as wonderful as by day. When I walk around the property I am amazed how the native vegetation has brought back our native quail, and bluebirds.  And I guess I wasn’t too suprised to see a fox the other day exploring the grasses at the edge of the compound.

Elements Austin Creek

The grounds have been landscape with indigenous grasses and ferns, highlighting the phenomenal native redwood trees. Pathways wind throughout, offering innumerable walks among ever-changing scenery, including a serene pond and enchanting waterfall to delight and awaken the senses. When you hike from the main compound, pathways become forest trails beckoning further into remote adjoining terrains still on the property Extended walks offer seasonal streams and waterfalls, in addition to Austin Creek itself, with its numerous swimming holes and opportunities for creek wading. The entire retreat is professionally lit to a stunning degree, complimenting its allure day and night

Entertaining large groups is effortless and everyone can have their own privacy, while gathering together in the large entertaining areas. All bedrooms, with a total of three king and two queen beds, are furnished with quality linens and down comforters

The main house is a contemporary craftsman style structure with a great room, master bedroom and two bathrooms. One of which is exceptionally large with multiple shower heads and a Zen inspired private garden. The fully appointed kitchen is centered around a granite island and can accommodate multiple chefs. Appliances include a professional six burner Wolf range/oven, micro wave drawer, Stainless refrigerator/freezer, garbage compactor, and dinner service for up to twenty-four people. The Great Room does have the latest in video, audio and Internet capabilities if that need strikes. The lodge is replete with fine attention to every detail, from the refectory style dining table, the deep leather sofa, to custom designed candle chandelier, which radiates throughout the main living area.

The West Terrace and Buddha Garden off the main house is an example of what makes this estate so unique. The outdoor kitchen and gardens were crafted from river stone years ago when the property was a summer campsite. The outdoor kitchen has been restored and updated and includes a state of the art gas BBQ, sink, lighting and herb garden. The original river stone fire pit is now, the focal point of a modern and sophisticated outside entertainment area. The dinning table was custom made from the center cut of a local redwood tree and seats fourteen plus people. It’s the perfect setting for a large family gathering or a romantic retreat.

The guest house has its own terrace and seating area. Its windows have beautiful garden views too, but with different vistas, giving this two-bedroom space a unique atmosphere and privacy. It has king and queen sleeping accommodations. A spacious multi shower head bathroom offers a mini spa experience off a secluded and private patio.

The “cabin” is everyone’s favorite. Its pine-paneled interior is a classic recreation of the traditional summer camp cottage. With its own small garden and seating area, king bed, and half bath, it is a secluded gem.

The yoga studio is the final structure, with its own Japanese wood walkway and meditative views. Although it is used primarily for exercise and yoga, its another great spot to relax. The studio has adjustable weights and other exercise equipment. It is also linked to the rest of the estate’s WiFi and sound system.

In the center of the compound is the spa area. Its focus is a redwood hot tub situated in the center of an ancient faerie ring of redwoods. It’s truly a magical location. A soak in the hot tub at night lets you link with nature and the starlit sky, a wonderful harmonious experience.

Located throughout the property is all the latest that technology can offer including two HDTV’s, a full range of cable programming, Blue Ray DVD, and high speed internet. The compound has two sound systems, one just for discrete music through the gardens. Each house has its own Internet radio connection, as well as I pod docking stations. All of this technology is here to serve your real world reality while you enjoy the calm and escape that this retreat provides.