When approached with the challenge of designing a contemporary house with a parking lot for two cars, Anonymous Architects came up with a daring architecture concept. Car Park House in Los Angeles, California switches between the position of the open-air “garage” and the living spaces, located below: “In addition to being a dramatic shift of expectations, it is also a logical response to the building code which requires parking for two vehicles“, the architects explained. When it came to presenting this project, what caught our attention was the crazy idea of literally driving your car on the roof of your house.
The imposing silhouette of the Car Park House was cleverly integrated in its landscape:“Because of the steep terrain the house is designed to float over the hillside. This reduces the amount of foundation required and also means that the only way to access the house is over the bridge – so it is truly a floating structure”. The unusual abode also offers striking views of the San Gabriel Mountains, transforming each of its terraces into a genuine spot for contemplation. [Photos by: Steve King]
French architecture always comes with a uniqueness of its own, with a unitary color scheme setting it past others. Conveying the same feel and cloaked in a white expanse is this beautiful abode with chic interiors for those craving for serenity. You can also notice the azure and sea green hues tagging in with overall pasty interiors. Cool fireplaces, meandering stairways, chic furnishings, vintage woodwork, and a well-equipped kitchenette indicate toward impressive home economics. Located in South London, the French style interior of the house is definitely an understatement for “gorgeous”. We’re sold! – via
Nestled in London (De Beauvoir Conservation area), this mesmerising Victorian house was renewed and extended this year by Scott Architects. As a curiosity, the project won the title “Best small house of the year” at The Sunday Times British Homes Awards 2013. Everybody was pretty much impressed by its inspiring, yet quirky appearance. The back of the house was garnished with a unique curvaceous extension, which pretty much adds a sense of modern to the structure. “The sculptural form of the rear extension has resulted from specific responses to the site’s immediate surroundings, while preserving the character of the existing building. The extension is designed to be part of the garden landscaping rather than the main house and this is reflected in the choice of timber cladding and green roof system.”
Without obliterating its Victorian essence, the house needed this uplifting transformation, to fit the contemporary context. The exposed brickwork blends with the oak finishings, unveiling a clean-lined interior. Low energy lighting, modern underfloor heating and last, but not least, a sloping green roof are just some of the sustainable features. At the edge of old and new, the residence celebrates the British heritage without neglecting the modern characteristics.
