ARC HOUSE - ARIZONA
Size: Single Family Residence
Objective: Vacation home with 1 Primary and 3 Jr. Primaries
Challenges/Opportunities: Views of the lake and mountains to the South require shielding from the AZ sun while framing the panorama. All 4 bedroom suites need views to the South while retaining privacy from neighboring properties.
Solution: 2-story “Horseshoe” layout oriented to the views to the South so more spaces can be opened up to the private, natural, shaded central courtyard. Intermediate overhang with transoms above allow for lofted ceilings while keeping direct sunlight off of the operable, main glazing systems below that frame the view. Infinity edge pool on the upper level has unobstructed views of the lake and mountains beyond and allow for privacy from all neighboring structures. Solar studies with accurate sun positions throughout the year allowed for optimization of overhang placement and sizing to keep a balance of shade and sun where desired.
What is “different”: Structurally, the house was designed concurrently with two construction methods. Economic feasibility and constructibility of an unconventional, foam core concrete product was explored while proceeding with a traditional framing fall-back contingency: Research of the “new” without tanking the project timeline.
Deliverables: Photo-realistic animation with correct geo-referenced terrain within a 30-mile radius of the site. Important landmarks beyond the 30-mile radius were included because of their importance to the panoramic views to the South. This exterior/interior animation, along with CAD layouts, were provided at the first preliminary design meeting with the clients 3-weeks after a kickoff program call. Early utilization of imagery allowed for an easy and fun dialogue between clients and designer while drastically cutting down on time in early design phases not only architecturally but with consultants as well. The time saved in re-draws in the drawing development stages was spent on early detail development which in turn cut back on structural questions and will save on in-field questions from contractors in the field.
