LONDON RESIDENCE

London, England
Custom Home, New Construction

The radial form of the London Residence is an extension of the existing radial geometry of the site, currently defined by a man-made lake and terraced land forms.  This classic shape embraces the landscape and provides a clear order for the arrangement of spaces.  All of the living spaces enjoy southwestern exposure and unobstructed views to the lake and environment beyond.

The structure of the home is defined by concrete columns and brick walls that follow the same radial order and define the individual living spaces.  These heavy elements root the home to the ground.  Conversely, abundant glass walls, sliding glass doors, and balconies open the structure up to the sky and drench the home in warmth and natural light.  The structure as a whole is intended to feel rooted to the earth, while at the same time slightly eroded by the elements, as though it has been standing on the site for quite some time.  Pocket gardens are carved out along the southern face, providing private outdoor spaces.  At the second floor, the roof form and building structure continues to erode, and in so doing, creates an elevated outdoor space, perfect for a small soccer game or a rooftop party.  At the east and west ends of the building, landscape trellises soften the transition from the manmade structure to the natural environment.

All of the living spaces are connected by the circulation spine on the first floor, a centrally located elevator, dual stairways, and bridge elements on the second floor which provide elevated vantage points for the living room and pool below and the lake beyond.  These spaces are united physically by their arrangement, but also emotionally connected by their shared visual enjoyment of the natural environment surrounding the home.  The connection between interior and exterior is reinforced by the linear swimming pool which extends from inside to outside, thus providing the opportunity for year-round enjoyment.  In order to enhance the emotional connections of the inhabitants, equal emphasis was given to providing personal, private space for each occupant to grow as an individual, as well as multiple shared common areas for all members of the family to enjoy time together, as an interconnected unit.