marmol radziner = all in one concept

I really like this concept. A company that does it all and to the highest standards – first a beautiful architecture, then high-quality construction that follows the exact plans created by architects (not that common to my experience) and finally gives a finishing touch with a landscape that connects the interior and exterior seamlessly. The even offer interior design if needed. The company in question is Marmol Radziner + Associates, yet another innovative LA-based architecture firm.

I have been admiring this Ward Residence (also featured in All of Architecture – book) for a while. It was built in Rustic Canyon near LA, and the house has a beautiful open architecture and yet at 4000 sq ft  (370m2) still feels cozy. The structure on this hilly location is concrete base, but the pavilions floating above are lighter metal and glass.

The house is organised is three separate pavilions separating private space from living space and the office. A pool runs the length of the backyard and emphasises the horizontality of the glass pavilions and steel

 

A lot of effort was taken to protect the original trees at the property as the indoor/outdoor interaction was integrated in the design

 

The main approach to the house flows between two pavilions

 

Office pavilion pictured – all pavilions features floor-to-celiing windows. The residence is set in steep hillside and is surrounded with trees

 

There is a close interaction of indoor and outdoor spaces, and this water feature connects natural elements to the interior

 

Large windows the use of exposed natural materials blur the distinctions between outdoor and indoor spaces

 

The dining area can be opened up and expanded to outdoors

 

The fireplace is of burnished concrete, which is a central motif for both the interior and the exterior

 

Hallways and stairs are also flooded with light and connect with the nature

 

The materials in the bathroom combine cedar, stainless steel and burnished concrete block. The design has Japanese influence, which is showcased in the cedar hot tub