A Mourning Dovecote

A traditional country ‘dovecote’ houses pigeons or doves, sometimes freestanding but often built into the ends of houses or barns. The Mourning Dove, one of the most widespread of all North American birds, is typically monogamous and is a prolific breeder, raising up to six broods a year. Both sexes take turn incubating, the male from morning to afternoon, and the female the rest of the day and night. Their soft, drawn-out calls sound like laments.

In 2013, the New York Times featured this 2,000 sq ft second home in Sonoma with an article called “Bespoke for the People” with a story focusing on cost-effective design strategies to create more site-responsive alternatives to prefab. Unlike the original home, this 390 sq ft addition is all about creating a single ‘bespoke’ space for the owner, the architect.

The pandemic, the passing of loved ones, and the realization that this second home would become a forever home, all inspired the atmosphere and details –and the pleasure of hearing coos of Mourning Doves just outside. Please contact us for more detailed information.