Reviving Sea Ranch:
A Sustainable Transformation
A Sea Ranch Renovation takes on new life with exterior siding that will withstand the threat of wildfires.
Since 2018, Principal Interior Designer and Founder, Julie Cavanaugh, has called Sea Ranch home after being a frequent visitor for over 30 years. She has developed enduring relationships with the community, neighbors, and local businesses.
“I’ve always been passionate about environmental harmony, and that passion began at Sea Ranch”
When the home was purchased, it had never been renovated and was in decline. With a growing need for fire-conscious and sustainable design, the renovation was approached with a commitment to modernize while honoring the original architectural intent.
In collaboration with the Sea Ranch Association, new fire-retardant exterior siding and decking materials were introduced and ultimately approved. Traditionally, only cedar shingles, planks, and other wood products were permitted to maintain the area's low-impact environmental aesthetic. Gaining approval for Tru Exterior Nickel Gap siding and Fiberon decking required extensive review and multiple sample presentations to the Design Review Committee. The material mimics the look of natural stained wood but offers greater fire resistance, durability, and reduced maintenance. Its approval marked a major step toward sustainability, eliminating the need for frequent treatments. Today, over 250,000 linear feet of these materials have been installed in Sea Ranch projects.
Materials: Tru Exterior Nickel Gap Siding through Healdsburg Lumber Company / Fiberon Decking through Golden State Lumber
The dreamy primary suite embraces modern, minimalist forms, thoughtfully echoing the original design ethos of Sea Ranch. A clean-lined vanity is paired with a sleek mirror, while rich dark wood ceiling beams add architectural warmth and a striking visual contrast.
Soundings
The Sea Ranch | Issue 164 - Summer 2025
Sustainability by the Sea: Sea Ranch & The New Coastal Design
Interior Design by Julie Cavanaugh, Photography by Bernardo Grijalva, Written by Kevin Marks, Editor Tempra Board
