Explore two exceptional architectural marvels – the Silver Lake House in Los Angeles, a homage to California modernist heritage, and The Free Bird House in Bali, a blend of contemporary and tropical design. Discover how these homes push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability while embracing their unique environments.
Silver Lake House: A Modernist Oasis in Los Angeles
Silver Lake House, the residence of architects Jeffrey Allsbrook and Silvia Kuhle, partners at Standard Architecture | Design, showcases a deep respect for the rich legacy of California modernist architecture. Located in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles, near early modernist homes designed by Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler, this house is a testament to extensive research and design innovation.
Purchased in 1997, the property initially consisted of two modest 1950s hillside cabins. Allsbrook and Kuhle transformed one of the structures into their primary home, integrating it with its lush surroundings featuring native California plants and a preserved Mexican Ash tree. The architects emphasized the use of natural materials such as redwood, concrete, and plaster, creating a tactile and visually cohesive environment.
The house incorporates significant design elements like deep overhangs and floor-to-ceiling glass walls, ensuring a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while providing expansive views of Los Angeles. The redesign also prioritized privacy, with carefully placed openings for cross ventilation and urban sanctuary aesthetics.
The Free Bird House: A Blend of Contemporary and Tropical Design in Bali
The Free Bird House, a private residence in Berawa, Bali, designed by Alexis Dornier, merges contemporary Japanese design with tropical modernism. Completed in 2023, this 770-square-meter home features an ‘H’-shaped layout with a unique living room suspended above a swimming pool. The retractable glass walls allow for an open-air experience, complemented by a glass floor that reveals the pool below.
Sustainability is a key focus of the design, managed by Eco Mantra, which has significantly reduced the home’s energy consumption and carbon footprint. The ground floor includes a gym and guest rooms designed for optimal garden views, with a yoga area inspired by Kengo Kuma’s Glass House.
Local craftsmanship is highlighted through materials like paras kerobokan stone and wood ceilings with fluted patterns. The house also features a distinctive wine fridge near the entrance, serving as a practical and sculptural element. Interior design by Kosame adds functional and aesthetic value, creating a serene, sustainable living environment that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
