Casabrava

San Diego, CA, United States

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Other Projects by Heather Johnston Architect

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Casabrava

San Diego, CA, United States

Firm

Heather Johnston Architect

Type

Residential › Private House

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2013

SIZE

3000 sqft - 5000 sqft

BUDGET

$1M - 5M

This is a compelling story about combining the precision and speed of factory building with the unique features of a house specifically designed for the owners and the site. By building the house parts – modules – and foundations concurrently in two different locations, the house was ready for move-in just four months after the modules were delivered. The total elapsed construction time was halved in comparison to traditional building practices. Constructing the house in a factory means better quality and less waste. Streamlined production is at the heart of every product we use today; this project brings system-oriented building concepts to the most important acquisition any of us will make in a lifetime. Once complete, the modules – some measuring up to 60 feet in length – arrived on nine semi trailers at the 1/3 acre building site in La Jolla, before being craned into position over 48 hours. During the next four months, local craftsmen applied the finishing touches, turning a collection of individual pieces into a personalized, energy-efficient home – making our vision a reality in only 8.5 months. During the demolition phase, existing structures, located at the site where Casabrava now sits, were deconstructed, with the materials donated to building material recycling specialists. It was important that the spirit of sustainability be present throughout the process – from the ground up. Simple modular rectangles delineate living spaces – both inside and out. Material selection not only blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior, but between module connections. The cedar slat dropped ceiling in the living room with its flowing shape, creates warmth and intimacy, and softens the acoustics of ceramic tile elsewhere. Casabrava’s siting maximizes natural light, ventilation and views. Major rooms have openings on four sides that brighten them at all times of day while encouraging cross-ventilation. Strategically designed roof overhangs keep the harsh summer glare out, but welcome winter sun in. The overhangs also protect the house siding, greatly reducing maintenance over time, and roof slopes are optimal for solar installation. Only fluorescent and LED lighting is installed throughout the interior and exterior of the house – electric costs are half that of traditional lighting. Provisions from the outset include rollover thresholds, generous openings and an elevator accommodation makes the house accessible for all ages and abilities. Casabrava’s streamlined construction process exemplifies an advanced concept in beautiful home design that sets a precedent for creating customized, yet environmentally responsible residences for years to come. Architect: Heather Johnston Architect Video Photography & Production: Erin Feinblatt Photography Additional time-lapse footage: Dale Stokes Finished project photos: Brady Architectural Photography Delivery and set photos: Erin Feinblatt Photography

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Casabrava

San Diego, CA, United States

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Casabrava

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Casabrava

San Diego, CA, United States

Other Projects by Heather Johnston Architect

Casa 8

Belladera

Casabrava

San Diego, CA, United States

Product Spec Sheet

Collaborating Firms

Team