floating bungalow - grunbaum residence by bestor architecture

floating bungalow – grunbaum residence by bestor architecture
all images courtesy of bestor architecture

the ‘floating bungalow’ by californian firm bestor architecture has a dream-like appearance as the upper floor’s white metal cloud is suspended in the air. the house is located along a side street in venice, california and is surrounded by traditional working class bungalows. reinterpreting the typical design of the nearby houses, the architects adapted a modernist approach to the structure. upon entry to the building a transparent porch-like outdoor room is visible from the street. this lower floor space opens out to the neighborhood and provides access to the surrounding landscape. the contrast between the upper and lower floor levels helps to give a sense that the structure is floating – charcoal walls beneath the white box, fade into the background at night, with interior lights illuminating the volume. the two levels are connected by a multifunctional stairwell with a black oblong skylight, the strong form punctures through the white roof and looks like an over-sized chimney.

interior view of the open plan kitchen and downstairs living space

the materials and fixtures used throughout the house are simple and well crafted, allowing the the spatial qualities of the house to be the feature. inexpensive plywood cabinetry is used as a built-in pieces – a reinterpretation of traditional craftsman techniques. the free-standing kitchen bench is completely blackened out, all details merge into the one object. the interior spaces offer a relaxed atmosphere, one that is both bold and soft. bright colors and strong contrasting materials create a sense of fun and openness, reflecting the house’s laid-back californian location.

plywood cabinetry is used throughout the house as a built-in ornamentation