Carbon Beach House by Olson Kundig and Soul Escapes

Located on the coast, Carbon Beach House features an open courtyard at its heart. Crafted by Olson Kundig and Soul Escapes, the residence blends with the surroundings, inviting the ocean inward to offer the owners an immersive coastal experience.

Shielded by a solid concrete wall along the facade, Carbon Beach House maintains an air of mystery regarding its interior. The spacious and multi-storey residence unfolds towards the ocean while paralleling the Pacific Coast Highway. With its robust foundation contrasting the surroundings, the design achieves a balance of functionality and resilience against the winds and corrosive elements. At its core, the home is imagined as a sanctuary for the owners, offering a sense of security upon crossing the metal front door. This simple act of closure signifies a transition into a tranquil and restful atmosphere, distinct from the bustling streetscape outside.

With its robust foundation contrasting the surroundings, the design achieves a balance of functionality and resilience against the winds and corrosive elements.

Perched above the sand and beach, the residence is elevated on a crafted pier structure, engineered for adaptability. This innovative system enables independent shifts beneath the structure, ensuring stability while melding with the natural surroundings. The resulting home also features moveable louvred walls that allow coastal breezes, sounds and scents to fill the interior. Employing a contemporary and linear approach, the design celebrates contrasts, with resilient base materials anchoring the dwelling in its coastal setting.

Once inside, guests encounter a captivating interplay of light across the various volumes, shaping their journey through the connected spaces and levels. The residence is thoughtfully designed to frame outward views, while the internal courtyard offers a sanctuary and brings nature into the daily living experience. Seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor realms, sliding elements enhance an expansive ambience, fostering a light-filled environment that naturally regulates the home’s temperature. Predominantly monochromatic, the material palette is enriched by the inclusion of light timber, maintaining a natural texture throughout.

Once inside, guests encounter a captivating interplay of light across the various volumes, shaping their journey through the connected spaces and levels.

In a bustling urban environment, Carbon Beach House stands as a tranquil oasis, blending innovation and openness. Olson Kundig and Soul Escapes interweave an industrious, modernist aesthetic with moments of respite, striking a balance between the bold architectural form and its landscape.

Architecture by Olson Kundig. Interior design and landscape design by Soul Escapes. Build by Hill Construction Company.