Having lived in Tempe for the better part of 15 years,
the Owners decided to re-build on their same lot, seeking to increase their
livable square footage from 1,500 sf to 3,200 sf, add a swimming pool, private
courtyard and covered parking area. On a lot of only 7,340 sf, their needs
resulted in a courtyard style home that wraps the entire lot. Current zoning
laws were in conflict with the design of the home, and two use permits and
seven variances were granted.
The design incorporates four intimate courtyards which help
create microclimates within the same lot while numerous glass doors pivot or
slide open, allowing for some sections of the home to be completely operable
and fosters a great indoor/outdoor feeling. The entry court is screened with
river rock gabion walls, while the exercise court is screened by rusted steel
walls, a master bedroom court is screened by concrete block walls, and a pool
courtyard is screened by a cast-in-place concrete wall that also doubles as the
pool's water feature.
The home is simple in
its architectural character, employing exposed CMU and an abundance of glazing
at the internal courtyards. Other materials include maple cabinetry, plate
steel walls, exposed integral color concrete floors and Arcadia storefront
aluminum and glass doors and windows.