The LR2 Residence is perched on a hillside overlooking Pasadena and its adjacent mountains.  Located down-slope from the client’s primary residence, this new 4,200-square-foot house is made up of several distinct living volumes. In response to the client’s desire to retain a significant portion of the existing flat pad between adjacent slopes, the building volumes were stacked to create a compact rectangular mass and then pushed against the hillside. LR2 is an extension of the primary residence and includes guest living spaces, a home office, gym, and subterranean screening room, as well as abundant outdoor spaces, all taking in views of the surrounding hills and valley.

Programmatic elements peel away from the primary group of building blocks and shift to follow the rough slope of the hillside terrain. The intended entry sequence flows with the landscape, guiding visitors along a reaching sidewalk that extends under the mass of the building. The compression of the resulting space offers a unique arrival experience leading to the natural creek beyond and the front door, which is nestled on the second floor.

Following the natural grade in an arching path, the front stairs lead to a bridged entry portal, all the while showcasing panoramic views of the house.  As the front door opens, the dark, angular façade of paneled concrete gives way to a light-filled interior of soft wood and bright white finishes. Upon entering, visitors find themselves within an indoor/outdoor living space; framed views of the exterior landscape guide in natural light and immerse visitors their surrounding environment. A central spine of stairs connects the programmatic levels, descending to a private screening room or ascending to the third-floor living spaces. This vertical core anchors a series of open terraces that mirror the interior living quarters, encompassing almost as much outdoor space as the enclosed third-floor footprint.