Leaves in the Wind

This site is located in a small canyon that drops off towards the ocean and is characterized by its massive rock outcroppings. The design integrates the dominant environmental factors, including these rock formations and the wind currents, into the interior spaces. The rock clusters designate the starting points for the structure and outline the livable spaces. Each distinct floor plane submerges into and then reemerges from the earth in response to the surging natural topography. The undulating components of the roof structure, minimally supported, adopt a free form as they appear to defy gravity, held aloft only by the prevailing wind currents. These same breezes move across the expansive surface of the pool, tempering the climate and flowing through the building as operable glazed perimeters are retracted. The reduction of structural supports achieve an assimilation of interior and exterior spaces. Natural light infiltrates the clerestories between each of the roof shells, softening their shape and blending their boundaries with the natural environment, while their deep overhangs still offer protection from the direct impact of the sun. Read more.


Blue Clouds

This design consists of a singular, undulating roof canopy that mirrors the natural forms of the surrounding hillsides, integrating them into its surrounding environment. The triangular shape of the roof is pulled downward at its three vertices, blurring the distinction between the manmade structure and the natural topography. The design and the location of the home follow the existing topography, with minimal disturbance to the natural landform. Glass panels allow much of the house to become open to the exterior and create a spectacular play of natural light and shadows throughout the course of a day. Read more.


Panorama

Sweeping panoramic views of the ocean dictate this plan’s circular form, whose core is removed to create an enclosed entry courtyard sheltered from the prevalent winds. The circular form is capped with an expansive fan-shaped roof that slopes from a low point around the courtyard to its summit along the outside edge, with the angular ceiling line transporting the viewers’ eye through the structure to the sky beyond. Broad overhangs provide protection from the western sun, while perforations along the eastern face permit the morning sun to naturally light the kitchen and breakfast spaces. Read more.


Shell House

This design reduces to a continuous, ribbon-like curve, inspired by the cresting ocean waves visible from the site. Circulation spirals vertically through the house around the naturally illuminated open well of the entry. The space duplicates the sensation of looking through the confining tube of a wave; once outside of it, the circular flow of the plan opens the interiors to the expansive landscape. The architectural forms arch with the sweep of this view as the roof segments rise up in response to the natural contours of the landscape, swelling and peaking just before collapsing back on themselves and washing down the slope towards the ocean. From above the roof dissipates into the landscape, seeming less of an intrusion on the site than a natural link to the water beyond. Read more.


Clouds Rest

The sloping and twisting roofline in this design complements the topography and mirrors the land upon which it is set. Nestled against the natural slope and placed amid oak trees, natural rock formations, and earth mounds, Clouds Rest blends seamlessly into the surrounding hillside, minimizing visual impacts, reducing artificial light impacts, and protecting public views.  Organic, blended design and precise positioning all serve to create a home that is in perfect harmony with the land. Read more.