"Volar" by Wallace Cunningham in San Diego

Architect Wallace Cunningham's philosophy encompasses nature and it's elements into his architecture. What better way to show it than designing a house inspired by the air currents of its location. Hired by the young French entrepreuner Pascal Brandys to create his house in a wild rocky location east of San Diego, the architect achieves catching the air and making it solid.

Caissons support concrete pads stepping down the slope among granite outcrops. By cantilevering, they preserve the natural topography. Three tapered columns, splayed, support each of the 13 undulating traingular panels that make the roof. These units are clad with titanium and will be pre-assembled.

Curved concrete walls are used to outline service areas at the heart of the abode, whole the perimeter is enclosed with mitred glass walls. Inclined at different angles, they look like a curtain. With the roof looking like floating on top of the cliff and seeming apparently weightless, cleverly hiding the strong foundations, the house is an amazing contrast to the usual constructions found in that part of California.

All photos here are from Wallace Cunningham's models-the house is not finished yet.

Comments

[Jordan Cappella]

Wow!

I can't wait to see the finished product. It reminds a little of the Sydney Opera House, with a much darker edge.

Very cool!

[ethan]

i want to see the inside of the house is as good as the outside