Set in the barrier island of Key Biscayne, overlooking the intracoastal waterway, Ocean View House is a residence for an European couple with two teenage daughters. Positioned in a tight standard lot (7,500sf), and separated from the sea by a road, the organization of the plan focuses on maximizing water views while creating privacy for its occupants.

The residence is laid-out with a compact footprint and an open floor plan organization of the public functions, a layout that reinforces the desire to be outdoors.

To further strengthen the relationship with the sea and blur the distinction between indoor and outdoor, the house incorporates a porch running  the full front, which is defined by a large operable glass wall that can slide out of view in good weather. The traditional Key Biscayne dry-lot  plan organization is inverted by positioning the garage at the back of the house, and the swimming pool, living and kitchen on the front. The residence is placed as far back as possible on the lot to create a sense of expanse at arrival and to take advantage of a 50’ easement fronting the street that becomes part of the front lawn.

A patio is carved into one of the sides to increase cross ventilation, maximize day-lighting and bring the landscape in. Its boundary defined by sliding glass doors. The location of the patio creates a separation between public (front) and private functions (back). This is reinforced with the position of the stair opposite to the patio acting as a hinge element.

The residence is topped by a roof terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay that doubles as an event space on special occasions.