The Brosmith Residence, a single-family villa, is sited on a ridgeline overlooking the Mulholland Scenic Parkway, a road running above the San Fernando Valley in Southern California.
The project’s spatial design harnesses the panoramic views of the valley below, making them an integral part of the house, and accessible from the common living areas, with their full-height glazed walls, and the outdoor courts. Inside and out form one continuous living space. The main patio is designed so that the glass-like swimming pool seems to disappear over the horizon on the site’s northern edge.
The succession of common living areas is flanked by the central spine, a long corridor leading off to separate living pods comprising the bedrooms, children’s room, and guest quarters.
Each pod is an independent unit connected independently to the central spine. This allows interaction with other inhabitants or separate activities without mutual disruption. The energy-conserving structure uses passive siting and natural shading to reduce dependence on mechanical air conditioning systems.
Courtyards are arranged to take advantage of prevailing breezes. Environmental awareness and cost effectiveness have prompted the innovative and repeated use of standard materials.
A sliding louvered screen in the master suite, for example, uses a mass-produced aluminium frame fitted with aluminium louvers that replace glass. The innovative application of simple, standard products seamlessly integrates with the clean lines of the house.