Practicing ArchitectureAwards

2010 AIA Housing Award Recipient

Category 1: One and Two-Family Custom Residences

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Notes of Interest

The house scales an uphill lot, with views to the west. Concrete walls run parallel along the side lot lines, forming the sidewalls of the house and continuing beyond to contain a protected garden. Sloping roof planes hover above, and are contained between the longitudinal concrete walls.

The main floor sits at garden level. It contains the common spaces, beginning with a view balcony at the front of the house that extends from the living room, back to a large, kitchen/dining area that opens to rear, outdoor living spaces. The lower portion of the dwelling holds the less public spaces - guest room, children's playroom, and utilities. An ample, yet thoughtful selection of glazed openings gently brings daylight into the home, and makes the best of views allowed by the site.

A roof deck is inserted at the top of the house and functions as a continuation of the garden living space. Strategic gaps or fissures were formed between roof and walls to illuminate the walls with natural light. Large glazed openings in the front and rear of the house create transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces. It provides a unique connection to the surrounding hills and San Francisco neighborhoods.

There is a shared language of simple materials and clean detailing throughout that unifies the space. This aesthetic creates the warmth and calmness essential for a family in an urban setting without distracting from the simple beauty of well juxtaposed spaces.