The home's modern design is characterized by its functionality and warmth. To address challenges posed by the property’s busy, main street location, the team designed a substantial front wall for enhanced privacy. Drawing inspiration from nature and the homeowners’ frequent trips to Bali, Indonesia, guests are immediately greeted by an outdoor courtyard, complete with a koi fish pond and tranquil water feature. Water circulating through the pond not only creates a serene, zen-like atmosphere, but also produces a sound barrier to further reduce street noise. Peripheral olive trees provide another nod to the family’s travels, recalling treasured memories made on trips to Greece and Italy.
The courtyard’s open design serves to maximize natural light throughout the home, with sliding doors implemented wherever possible to facilitate cross-ventilation and fluidity between indoor and outdoor spaces. With the second story set strategically over a portion of the first, an open roof deck provides another functional outdoor space that offers panoramic views overlooking the pool area. A basketball court stands adjacent to the pool area, linking the ADU to the primary residence while creating a dynamic recreational zone that encourages activity and emphasizes the thoughtful integration of leisure and play.
Aesthetically, the home’s interior includes a mix of elements; wood, concrete, and fire contribute to the peaceful atmosphere of the space, and a monochromatic color palette was implemented to allow these natural materials to shine through. The clients were also deeply involved in the design process and built all the cabinets in the home (sustainably made using Valchromat MDF with natural wood veneers or high pressure laminates for surfaces). Modest private spaces, like the house’s bedrooms and five accompanying bathrooms, ensure that there is ample room for the family and visitors alike, maximizing comfort and livability with a modern simplicity.
The firm’s commitment to eco-conscious design is displayed in the building system: a fire-resistant, noncombustible, and sustainable construction developed by the firm. This system consists of panelized construction that is built with steel framing and foam panels, not only ensuring higher precision and waste reduction, but also providing superior fire protection.
By incorporating fire-rated steel studs that are constructed with advanced insulation materials during the prefabrication process, this approach provides a non-combustible building material that is resilient in fire zones and also maintains comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. Ultimately these measures result in increased fire protection, reduced energy consumption that promotes environmental sustainability, and enhances the occupants' living experience.
The Zen House project exemplifies a commitment to innovative design, sustainability, and the realization of the client’s vision to maintain an active, outdoor lifestyle. By prioritizing the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, maximizing natural light and ventilation, and employing sustainable design techniques, this modern, minimalist home demonstrates how thoughtful design can overcome site challenges to create a harmonious living environment.
