Project Description
OceanView Orchard Townhouse is the first (of eventually four) that responds to a burgeoning demand for a thoughtful, contemporary residence that is both ecologically mindful and pedestrian oriented. This infill project starts by de-constructing an existing dilapidated 1920’s single family house and salvaging the early growth douglas fir framing lumber for reuse. During early design research and site investigation, two significant fruit trees are unearthed from the brambles. Still producing pears and plums after years of neglect, this edible landscape becomes the seed of a design concept. Located at the intersection of working class, single family houses and a declining manufacturing district, the area is experiencing redevelopment pressure from all sides. A thriving ceramics community supports a Potter’s Guild and several galleries. The scent of hops from handcrafted breweries can be enjoyed when the winds blows from the west. Bustling downtown San Francisco is a mere 12 minute car or 20 minute train commute away. The design reinterprets the local industrial aesthetic, folds in humanism, and adds just a touch of color. Local zoning allows for four housing units on the lot. Residential neighborhood adjacencies suggest detached units. The desire is for refuge from the city, leaving the intensity of the urban condition at the front door. This is achieved by inverting the plan: the living spaces are on the top floor affording a view of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge and the ocean in the distance. The plan is an extremely efficient 17’ x 33’ rectangle extruded up three floors, leaving room for a side yard. The curved roof maximizes ceiling height and just feels right. It’s finished inside and out with panelized wood unifying with the wood floors. A subtext of transparency brings privacy and adds a level of refinement to the otherwise tough industrial materials. The larger community is known for love and exploration of cuisine. With that in mind, the house and yard become part of an orchard – 14 cultivated fruit trees are hand selected and water by “laundry to landscape” grey water irrigation.