LOS ALTOS HOUSE
ARCHITECTURE:
Stephen MacCracken (Principal)
Hutch Mouradian (Project Designer)
Alan Kaufman (Project Architect)
Nathan Seney
CONTRACTOR:
Mark Buran General Contractor
CONSULTANTS:
Jon Brody Consulting Engineers (Structural)
EnerSys Solutions LLC (Energy Calculations)
Triad/Holmes Associates (Civil Engineers)
Ed Cansino (Lighting Consultant)
CMG (Landscape Architects)
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Cesar Rubio
The 1.07-acre site, located in a low-density residential area, slopes to the southeast along a lush green belt lined with large oak trees and dense grass. The concrete and steel are clearly sealed and exposed. Detailing is minimalist, with very little trim; the spaces are voluminous and airy with an open plan, high ceilings, and large windows. Exposed steel columns support the central clerestory structure. The house was conceived as a gradual discovery and revelation of crenelated walls stepping up the hillside, protected by the sloped roof on a metal structure. The passage of time is suggested through the careful juxtaposition of elements that are physically connected to the ground to their temporary coverings floating above.
Key materials: • concrete • steel • glass • wood siding