Vertical Courtyard House

PrizeHonorable Mention in Architectural Design / Residential Architecture - Single Family
Firm LocationSanta Monica, United States
Project locationSanta Monica, California
CompanyMontalba Architects
Lead ArchitectDavid Montalba, FAIA

Dissolving the boundaries between spaces, both interior and exterior, is the primary design intent of this single-family residence. Conceptually, the house is split into two distinct volumes with a landscaped strip bisecting the space. Instead of going horizontal, the home expands vertically with proportions driven by experience-based ideas. A vertical courtyard organizes the house and infuses natural light into all three floors while providing private inward views and spatial dimension with large walls of glass that remain fully open, yet still retain a level of privacy.