The founders of California-based studio 3R have created for themselves a compact, live-work unit known as the Evelyn ADU, which consists of two gabled volumes related by a glazed bridge.
Positioned within the yard of a 1938 home in Albany, a metropolis close to Berkeley, the venture was conceived “in response to rising density within the Bay Space's city panorama,” mentioned native agency 3R Studio.
The married co-founders of the structure agency, Mai Tran and Le Pham, purchased the home in 2015, moved into its tiny basement and rented out the higher half. Their aim was to save cash to construct an adjunct dwelling unit (ADU) for themselves on the three,800-square-foot (353-square-meter) property.
Final yr, they accomplished the ADU — a 630-square-foot (59-square-meter) constructing that “navigates the constraints of a compact web site.”
“Surrounded by high-rise residence blocks, it addressed the challenges of privateness, daylight and integration with neighboring constructions,” the studio mentioned.
“Located in the course of city density, it’s a yard retreat in a energetic city context.”
Quite than a single block, the timber-framed constructing consists of two staggered bars clad in white stucco and linked by a glass-enclosed hall. The bars are coated with gabled roofs, mimicking the fashion of the property's primary home.
The ADU is organized round its personal non-public courtyard and is separated from the primary home by greenery.
“By breaking the standard kind into smaller volumes, the ADU successfully defines non-public outside areas and buffer zones,” the group mentioned.
“Upon getting into, guests usually categorical shock and are instantly drawn to the courtyard, which options timber, mild and towering bamboo.”
The constructing serves as each the primary residence and headquarters of 3R Studio.
One of many two volumes has a kitchen, rest room and bed room. A picket staircase supplies entry to the attic for visitors. The opposite quantity comprises a multipurpose room with a library loft.
“The dwelling areas are compact however very environment friendly, saving prices and power,” the group mentioned.
The constructing has a air flow system with power restoration and radiant ground heating.
Fenestration is very strategic to stop glare, present air flow, present views and herald daylight – all whereas sustaining privateness.
Learn: Martin Fenlon Structure Wraps Los Angeles Dwelling With Woody Inexperienced Cladding”]
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The fabric palette was pushed by issues for sustainability and native availability, and reclaimed supplies have been used the place potential.
Formwork used to construct the ADU basis was reused to border the roof rafters, and wooden from a demolished shed was used for retaining partitions. The bathe ground is fabricated from ipe wooden recovered from one other web site.
Total, the home is supposed to harmonize kind, supplies and power effectivity whereas standing the take a look at of time.
“Our method prioritizes what actually issues over the buildup of ornamental particulars or options,” the studio mentioned.
“This holistic method underscores our dedication to sustainable and environmentally pleasant design.”
Different ADUs in America embody an Austin unit from North Arrow Studio that’s clad in corrugated steel and has a birdhouse-style round window, and a two-story Los Angeles unit from Assembledge+ that has blue fiber cement cladding and an asymmetrical roof in two two flooring.
Images is by 3R Studio.