Excerpt: The Off-Grid Guest House by Anacapa was designed with the goal to improve the property’s ecological integrity rather than further deteriorate it, with the least possible negative effects on the ecosystem. In an effort to blur the line between the built and the unbuilt, the house was designed like a glass peninsula, with three-way operable glass walls that summon various ocean and canyon vistas.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] The owner’s primary goal for this project was to safeguard and preserve the natural environment. This contemporary guest home is situated on a wildlife preserve and is one of California’s last remaining natural coastal locations, demonstrating how to successfully balance residential development and ecological preservation.
The 1,800 square foot house was built into a steep slope with minimal visible and environmental impact on the area. Through a substantial amount of sliding glass and expansive decks that cantilever over the high, cliff rock wall, the house welcomes panoramic 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and adjacent rolling hills while concealing its low profile and green roof. These decks also give a direct view of the canyon below.
Since the house is situated on a ridgetop, it can be viewed from a great distance.The architect didn’t want it to stand out or draw attention. The objective was to improve the property’s ecological integrity rather than further deteriorate it, with the least possible negative effects on the ecosystem.
In an effort to blur the line between the built and the unbuilt, the house was designed like a glass peninsula, with three-way operable glass walls that summon various ocean and canyon vistas. The house is elemental, made of materials like steel, concrete and glass, that integrate seamlessly with the landscape and that will weather and patina naturally over time. Rich walnut accents and custom fixtures and furnishings add warmth and character to the space.
Due to the lack of electricity in this rural area, the owner’s neighbouring primary property and the guest house are both entirely off-grid. A photovoltaic energy system provides all of the home’s energy needs. To lower energy demands and consumption, low-usage appliances and LED lighting were chosen. Water treatment and a private well are available at the residence, while a septic tank and dry well are used for wastewater disposal.
Internal temperatures are controlled by a combination of radiant floor heating, cross ventilation via the quantity of moveable sliding windows, and an insulating green roof. A green roof conserves water while blending the house into the surroundings. The plan also incorporates a detached garage that is subtly incorporated into the hillside.
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