Project Data:

Completion Date:     6/24/2022

Square Footage:      5788

Building Use:           Residential

Project Description:

Designed for a young, professional athlete and his newly wed wife, this coastal house is located within the Irvine Cove community of Laguna Beach, California.

This residence is inspired by and speaks to the rich mid-century modern architecture that has defined Irvine Cove. A central courtyard facilitates the integration of interior and exterior living.

A linear pool projects from this courtyard and provides a visual connection to the sea in the distance. Folded planes frame views while also providing privacy. Cast concrete walls anchor the building to the site and provide a contrapuntal base from which dramatic cantilevers emerge. Perforated wood screen orchestrate light, while also adding an aspect of architectural jewelry.

The ethos of modernism has always been to strip away the extraneous and be somewhat reductive.

Design for Energy, Design for Well-being 

ENERGY
The architect and the owner shared an interest in sustainability. The design integrates
stone flooring and walls, acting as a passive, thermal heating and cooling system;
planted roofs provide thermal insulation, photovoltaic panels; operable windows and
large sliding doors to facilitate natural ventilation and low maintenance recycled
materials for cabinetry and other interior finishes.

Other sustainable techniques include dual pane insulated glass windows and doors,
recycled materials, sustainably forested wood framing, Energy Star appliances and
lighting, low flow toilets and faucets, and low VOC paints. Not only is the house energy
efficient, but the drought tolerant landscaping, efficient irrigation, construction and
erosion control, and even waste management is sensitive to the environment.

WELL-BEING
The owner's brief called for an internal sanctuary for the enjoyment of family and
friends. The benign climate of this region created an opportunity for the seamless
integration of interior and exterior space. A second skin system of adjustable,
electronically controlled exterior shutters facilitates the control of light and privacy. The
reductive, minimal forms and materials give priority to an atmosphere of meditation
and tranquility, establishing direct contact with the sea.

Completion Date:     6/24/2022

Square Footage:      5788

Building Use:           Residential

Location:                 Laguna Beach, CA

Horst Noppenberger

Horst Architects

Phil Hughes

Nader Khoury - Engineering Structures, INC

James Dockstader

Tom Waters Construction

Geologist - Jamie Fink, Coastal Geotechnical
Energy - Paul Kandarian, Southland Energy Consultants
Surveyor - Toal Engineering
Civil - Toal Engineering

Chad Mellon
Dean Ledger