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GLENDALE
Simplicity and restraint were the guiding principles of this design for a hillside residence positioned at the poetic edge where land meets sea. The principal programmatic requirements were to maximize ocean and canyon views while maintaining a sense of privacy and security for the owners and their young children.
The parti divides the program into two intersecting rectangular volumes engaging a central courtyard, one for communal and one for private, reflective activities. The skin of the structure is composed of alternating solid and void surfaces both editing and framing views. Concrete block walls anchor the structure to the site and achieve a sense of permanence for the inhabitants. Transparent floor to ceiling walls embrace panoramic views while also blurring the distinction between interior and exterior space. The subtle reflectivity of the metal skin reflects the ephemeral variations of ambient conditions.
A shared interest in sustainability between the owners and architect led to a design that incorporates concrete floors to absorb the sun’s warmth in the winter, operable windows and large sliding doors to facilitate natural ventilation, a pool which acts as a passive cooling system and the use of low maintenance, recycled, eco-friendly materials.
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