PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Inspired by California mid-century design traditions – Ridge Valley, a 2,000 sq.ft. 2-story rebuild home in Altadena redeploys butterfly and gable roof forms using an innovative 30.60.90-degree angular twist. Similarly to the Eichler tradition, a set of parallel wood beams hold up the roof producing a dynamic cost-effective building structure. In a contemporary manner, the beams are set anglularly which create unique opportunity to undulate the roof forms parametrically in response to the local surrounding topological conditions. Reaching up towards the views while remaining sensitive to climate conditions of winter and summer sun, the roof line is designed to carefully mimic the natural topography. Openings are carefully placed for sunlight and views necessary for fulfilling passive sustainability, resiliency, and fire-resistive demands. Its very simple box-like plan reduces the dollar per sq.ft. cost of the building structure while allowing for more playful material textures and the dynamic use of pattern and color to create artful excitement both inside and out. To protect against future fires: hardscaping, metal roofing, aluminum and concrete exteriors, ventless insulation cavities, slab-on-grade construction, and high-performance doors and windows, alongside passive electric mechanical and crossventilation systems are integrated to protect and condition the warm, safe, and artful interior spaces. Ridge Valley fits into the unique natural topography, climate, and historic surroundings of the Altadena hillsides in a colorful, beautiful, playful, and contemporary manner.
Rear exterior view with built-in pool/hot tub, floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom structural downspout system
Double-height living with dynamic interior graphics and material patterns
Dining room and feature stair with dynamic interior graphics and material patterns
Principal Designer and Architect: Stephen Phillips, FAIA, Ph.D
Project Team: Kai Chen, Chenyang (Leo) Li, Henry Soria, Kenneth Wong, Rita Wu
Consultants: Labib Funk + Associates (Structural), NRG Compliance (Title 24)