Creating Privacy in an Urban Indoor-Outdoor Home
The Goodman Residence sits on a long and narrow lot that is typical to Venice Beach. The home’s arrangement divides the property in two to create a study of solid and void. On one side, a solid linear rectangle spans the depth of the property. Its façade enhances privacy with a sculptural composition which features layered depths of smooth steel trowel stucco and minimal windows.
Conversely, the other side of the property features dual open structures and a slender pool. These two major elements of covered and uncovered are joined by an accordion glass wall that allows even the solid structure to expand into the outdoors. The result is a Southern Californian indoor-outdoor home that preserves privacy in a condensed and urban environment.
A single linear bar traverses the entire home along the property line and strings the interior spaces together, never breaking. It begins at the exterior entrance as a concrete partition running perpendicular to the front door. Once Inside, it acts as an architectural ledge in the entry before turning into the kitchen countertop. From there, it continues on to serve as a slim desk and finally ends as a built-in media cabinet.
The homeowner possessed a brilliant collection of books, which are showcased in sprawling built-in book shelves in the living room. Poured concrete panels and floors maintain an industrial element while light green Trespa panels cover both exterior and interior walls. The steel staircase in the center of the home sustains openness with a glass encasement.
Photography by Jim Bartsch