Archinect
Donaldson + Partners

Donaldson + Partners

Los Angeles, CA

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The main volume of the home frames the ocean view, capped with the extension of the wrapping-pool.
The main volume of the home frames the ocean view, capped with the extension of the wrapping-pool.
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Toro Canyon Residence

What if a home could be built to be environmentally resilient, wildfire resistant, and yet comfortable and open to the extraordinary ocean view site?

This residence on a 10-acre site is approached via a narrow, tree covered drive, ending at a small clearing with views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. The residence is sited on axis with the canyon and views beyond. The building presents three one story, wedge shaped volumes; a carport /service volume to the north, a public living volume to the south west and a private sleeping volume to the south east.

Constructed of laminated glass beams and roof panels, with glass doors, the entry space is conceptualized as a transparent exterior connection between the private and public wings of the house. The exterior walls are constructed of 12” thick insulated cast-in-place concrete, and a metal roof helps to provide maximum fire resistance in this secluded canyon. Interior floors are lightweight concrete. The exposed concrete is warmed with doors and windows of natural mahogany and interior millwork and ceilings of natural eucalyptus.

 
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Status: Built
Location: Montecito, CA, US
Firm Role: Architect
Additional Credits: Partners In Charge:
Robin Donaldson, AIA

Project Architects:
Greg Griffin

Contractor:
Paul Franz Construction Inc.

Photographer:
Ciro Coelho

 
The home is divided into two main volumes, allowing for framed views through the volumes and within.
The home is divided into two main volumes, allowing for framed views through the volumes and within.
The entry shows the clear delineation between the home's two main volumes.
The entry shows the clear delineation between the home's two main volumes.
The approach to the home shows the direction of the framed views that lie within.
The approach to the home shows the direction of the framed views that lie within.
The entry creates an indoor-outdoor space that unites the two main volumes of the home.
The entry creates an indoor-outdoor space that unites the two main volumes of the home.
Formed concrete is prevalent throughout the home, the simplicity is ever-obvious within the main stair.
Formed concrete is prevalent throughout the home, the simplicity is ever-obvious within the main stair.
The secondary material of wood brings warmth through the ceiling and built-ins found in the kitchen.
The secondary material of wood brings warmth through the ceiling and built-ins found in the kitchen.
The main volume is extended from the kitchen and features awe-inspiring views of the California coast.
The main volume is extended from the kitchen and features awe-inspiring views of the California coast.
Linear cuts throughout the home allow for framed views of the landscape around it.
Linear cuts throughout the home allow for framed views of the landscape around it.
Passages through a hallway within the volumes allow for strong lines of light to permeate.
Passages through a hallway within the volumes allow for strong lines of light to permeate.
Upper Floor Plan
Upper Floor Plan
Lower Floor Plan
Lower Floor Plan