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An accessory housing unit in the heart of California
Set in lush greenery and surrounded by towering trees, Flying V is one of the latest accessory housing units (AHU) from Modern House Architects, which worked on this project with Field Landscape Architects. To expand the living and entertaining spaces of an existing family home, the team took on the challenges of a long, narrow, almost triangular lot in Atherton, California. Their design stands out for its perfect balance between openness to the outdoors – in particular, to the garden and swimming pool – and privacy. Its unusual architectural composition is articulated around the garden, which connects with the main house and swimming pool, according to a plan also based on the rigid constraints of the site. A large guest living room, kitchenette, and dining space directly overlook the pool and the trees on the opposite side of the lot, while the sleeping area and gym are at right angles to the living area.
All the spaces are then brought together by enhancing the natural environment to improve the sustainability of the housing unit. Large windows, such as the one in the living room, allow abundant natural light into the dwelling throughout the day, drastically reducing the need for artificial lighting. A similar situation applies to the ventilation, with the Mediterranean climate harnessed to ensure excellent comfort levels in both winter and summer, and throughout the day and night.
While respecting structural constraints and functionality, the architects also made the appearance of the AHU a central part of their work to create a continuity with the character of the existing structure and with the contemporary look of the whole. The white wall along one side of the pool is an example of this, as both a design element and a backdrop that creates privacy. The same can be said of the roof, whose structure and tone fit gently into the landscape. Materials such as stucco, limestone on vertical surfaces, and painted steel for the roof all add a touch of elegance. Incorporating shading slats into the design introduces a dynamic visual motif that changes throughout the day.
This design perfectly captures the mission of Modern House Architects, which focuses on respect for nature, harmony with the surrounding built environment, and passive design.
Location: Atherton, California, USA
Architects: Curt Cline, Modern House Architects and Christopher Yates, Field Landscape Architect
Built up area: 59.6 sq. m
General Contractor: Clarum Homes
Client: Private
Consultants
Civil: Chappell Surveying Services
Structural: SFA Design Group
T-24 Energy compliance: Philip Neumann
Pool: Paradise Pools
Photography by Farshid Assassi (Assassi Productions), courtesy of Modern House Architects
