Morleigh Properties

The Shell House has an organic form that is designed to be visually compatible and harmonious with the surrounding environment. The architectural forms arch with the sweep of the landscape in concert with the natural contours of the landscape. Following the natural contours of the terrain minimizes grading and landform alteration and helps protect rock formations and other natural visual features. Organic ribbon roof segments rise in unison with the natural slope of the land. The design reduces to a continuous, ribbon-like curve, inspired by the cresting ocean waves. The roof dissipates into the landscape, reminiscent to the dissipation of water.

In response to Coastal Commission staff’s request to move back the design, the new location was selected to: 

• Minimize overall site disturbance and conform to the natural topography
• Further reduce the driveway length
• Preserve the large knoll and rocks to the south, which help to further conceal the home from public view
• Locate in within a disturbed and non-native plant area
• Melt into the hillside to maintain the character of the surrounding area

Night light minimization features include:

• The new location locates the house behind the existing topographic knoll, which is designed to reduce visual impacts and minimize artificial light emanating from inside.
• The undulating envelope of the roof wraps the house in such form that light will not come out from the sides of the house, further reducing light impacts.
• Landscape elements will be specifically designed for the site to serve as screens to substantially reduce artificial light at night. Landscape screening elements will include existing trees, natural rock formations, new trees, and vegetation.
• Existing landforms and rock outcroppings will be untouched and incorporated into the design to serve as natural filters to further blend with the landscape and reduce artificial light impacts.
• Shades will be added to all windows to minimize lighting impact.
• Exterior light shields, low watt exterior blubs, and other exterior measures will further minimize artificial light to protect public view at nighttime.

The flowing organic design elements and the revised location create a visually compatible design that conforms to the character of the surrounding area and protects public views.

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