Situated in a suburban neighborhood, the site is flanked by incredible oak trees on both sides of the street on a corner lot. The south and west sides are facing the street with over 130’ long facade, which posed both unique opportunities and challenges. Restrained by the long rectangular lot, the house layout forms an L-shape to respond to its street frontage and provides private backyard spaces.
Inspired by the beauty of trees and the natural surroundings, the house is carefully sited to maximize the view by orienting all windows toward them, which not only gives a better view to each room but avoids any privacy issue to the neighbors’ backyards. Sustainably, these trees also help reduce heat gain by shading off summer sun and allowing natural daylight.
The design of the house is intended to enhance the relationship of indoor and outdoor space, and capture a serene spirit of space by exploring lightness, filtering natural breezes, integrating indoor/ outdoor spaces within dynamic patterns of light and shadow. The balconies are strategically placed to extend rooms from indoor to outdoor. The integrated metal shading and screen act as a layer of translucency to provide filtering light, shadow and breeze.
The dwelling utilizes simple and efficient open layout. The second floor is designated as the living quarter with bedrooms, and all family common areas are grouped together in the south end of the house where living, family and dining are all centralized around the open kitchen. The living room is featured with 15’ wide patio door, which opens to the backyard and strengthen the concept of indoor/outdoor California living style.