Even though many of us use the garage to enter and exit our homes, the 'formal' entry is of significant importance in terms of architectural design and aesthetics. It's where the user has direct interaction with the building envelope, enabling a tactile relationship with exterior form and material before entering.
The issue of circulation is of critical importance to design, as it informs how users move through a space and how those spaces relate to one another. In this regard, stairs- in terms of location, design, and configuration- are of particular relevance as a key component of a fundamental building system.
We thought we'd share a few schematic renderings that we've been working on for a new, collaborative project in Laguna Beach. Located on one of Laguna's hillside neighborhoods, the sloping site and lot configuration, as well as existing conditions and context, are key elements in determining sustainable design opportunities for this multi-level home, which include rammed earth construction and a green roof system.
Read MoreIn recent years, individuals and communities are rethinking priorities and changing the social patterns that dictate how we live, work, and play. One social issue that has had direct impact on how we design, plan, and construct buildings is the movement towards increased density and the need for flexibility; this cultural shift requires adaptable living spaces that maximize functionality.
We're heading upstairs to the Master Bedroom + Bath to share a few recent renderings for our project in Fullerton, Orange County.
The main public spaces at the first level feature sliding glass walls that allow the living room to open completely towards the view. At the upstairs level, the same design approach and considerations guided the layout, with the Master Suite taking advantage of its location and orientation to optimize views, employ passive heating strategies, and increase light, air and ventilation.
