CHENEY RESIDENCE
A beautiful semi-rural site was purchased for its view to a large field and mountain ridge to the north. The original house has been torn down and a new one built on the existing foundation. A limited budget and short time frame necessitated a straightforward structural and spatial design, with modest materials and detailing. A single pitch shed type roof covers a simple rectangular floor plan. The roof creates an 18 ft high north facing wall opening to the views of field and mountains. The expansive sloped ceiling is counterbalanced by a surrounding low ceiling above the kitchen and dining alcove.
On the south side a corrugated steel wall screens the entry deck from the adjacent street and serves as an intimate eating area off the kitchen. The main living area opens to decks on both sides. A red painted wall serves as a privacy screen between the main house and a rental unit. Located in a high-risk fire zone, the exterior of the house is designed to “harden’ it against wildfires. The roof and south wall are clad in continuous standing seam Cor-ten steel. All other walls are clad in cement Hardi-board panels. There are no eaves, windows are 1’ thick insulated glass, the few vents are screened against embers and the fire rated wood decks enclosed at the perimeter.
Topanga CA