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challenge
Respond to place and climate
solution
The design responds to this active couple's indoor-outdoor lifestyle
with extensive outdoor spaces oriented to take advantage of panoramic
views of the surrounding marine community. They make the home's interior
spaces feel more expansive. The entry is quietly nestled into a
landscape of Queen Palms. On the canal side, this residence offers
unimpeded views.
Despite the region's sub-tropical climate, the home's environmental
design minimizes use of air conditioning, allowing residents and their
extended family and guests to enjoy the natural breezes off the water.
A two-story stair tower is the design's focal point, connecting the
three wings of the house and orienting family and visitors alike to the
interior spaces. This space additionally serves as the house's "lungs," rising above the roof to exhaust hot air and draw
in cool breezes through natural convection. Sunshades above the windows
protect the interiors from the hot sun.
To withstand hurricane-force wind and storm surge, the all-concrete
structure is raised above the floodplain and detailed with
hurricane-resistant glass. The structure's massing, fenestration, and
vertical surfaces provide privacy from the street.
challenge
Work efficiently with South Florida planning officials
solution
In a region whose codes require multiple protections against nature,
we met early in the process with planning officials and neighbors to
explain the project. We developed 3-D study models for the planners to
ensure that they understood our intent and we understood their
interpretation of local codes. The project then worked its way smoothly
through the local and regional permitting processes in Southern
Florida.
Our practice is headquartered in San Francisco, but we're also
nationally certified, with completed projects in Florida and New York
as well as California.
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