The project sought to study the relationship
of form and nature by utilizing architecture to embrace and enhance the ocean
breeze and sunset of Manhattan Beach. Modern geometries and clean lines collide
volumetrically in this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home that sits atop a 4,640 square
foot sloping lot. The final product features cantilevered planes, interlocking
volumes and an open floor plan that provides for both an internal and external
experience of the living space.
The exterior
showcases a large gasket of reclaimed oak that houses the second-story
bedrooms. This large volume of contrasting materiality extends beyond a
vertical cast-concrete circulation component while remaining nestled into the
garage volume. This thoughtful positioning creates the illusion that the edge
of one space glides smoothly across the next. Functionally, it delivers
second-story decking and sun shading.
The interior provides
for seamless spatial transition on the first floor and “private” bed and bath
areas on the second floor. Created to feel “public” through its openness, the
entry, main living, dining area, and custom kitchen share two static and two
dynamic walls that, when open, evolve into the aqua area of the home that is delineated
by reclaimed wood decking. Here, a solar-heated saltwater infinity pool takes
center stage while a swimsuit designer’s studio located at the rear of the
property mimics the living area design by also incorporating the ability for
complete exposure to the pool area through the use of sliding,
floor-to-ceiling, glass doors.
Considerations for energy and water consumption were addressed by
equipping the home with a solar heating system for both the pool and main water
supply, a hydroponic radiant floor heating system, a reclaimed water system
that captures and reuses all grey water generated on the site, and an 8KW
photovoltaic array sufficient to power the entire residence and charge the
owner's electric cars.