Posts from the “Architecture” Category
Three rectangular volumes with traditional hipped roofs were placed between a mature stand of cypress and a picturesque cove. The odd angle of the void between the main building blocks forms the two story floor-to-ceiling glass entry, leading to the more public areas of the home on one side and a private master suite on the south side. The careful siting takes advantage of the variety of available views as well as the topography of the land. As a result, sunlight is captured in different rooms throughout the day and large glass sliders lead to patios on both the lower and upper floors.
“The house is beautifully integrated onto the site and is harmonious with the silhouettes of the knolls and coastal cliffs.” CALIFORNIA HOMES
Two simple shed-roofed wings were placed parallel to the curving hillside, creating an open courtyard. From there one enjoys spectacular views of the Carmel Bay to the north. Responding to the challenge of south (and its desired solar gain in this climate) being on the opposite side of the treasured views, a second courtyard on the sheltered, uphill side was cut into the slope. The continuous stone flooring and a series of French doors make for a fluent indoor/outdoor experience.
“The Sena residence takes glorious advantage of prevailing breezes and natural sunlight, in spite of its challenging north facing site” THE ECO FRIENDLY HOUSE, GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL by Claudio Santini and Dafna Zilafro
In order to conceal this home from its uphill neighbors a shelf was cut into the narrow slice of grassland located between an access road on one side and the steep slopes of the West Coast on the other. The uphill land extends as a green roof over the underground portions of the home-terminating on the gently curved roof of the living room.
All utilities, including the 5000 gallon water storage tank, were placed underground in order to preserve the surrounding landscape.
“Even the most ardent environmentalists would be hard-pressed to argue with the fluid way in which Langka and Zack Treadwell’s home blends seamlessly into its Big Sur surroundings” DWELL
Like many residences of the mid-century era this home has great flow and well-proportioned volumes, but was in need of an extra bedroom as well as a new kitchen and bathrooms. In addition, our goal was to modernize the outdated house technology resulting in a highly efficient home with supplemental photovoltaic power generation. We are proud to have completed the first LEED-certified home in Carmel-by-the-Sea, reaching the highest level: Platinum.
This 1972 home was badly deteriorated but its great layout and good volumes made it well worth saving from demolition. This project was our first experiment in trying to save and re-use all demolished wood from the site. With its new insulated windows and doors and high efficiency heating and appliances, this home is on track to be the third LEED certified home in Carmel by the Sea. View the photos taken throughout this remodel here to see the amazing transformation.
Studio Schicketanz 