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Vista Drive Pavilion / Studio B Architecture + Interiors
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Text description of the architects. Inspired by the works of artist Robert Kelly, the Vista Drive Pavilion is a composition of bodies and voids with varying degrees of transparency. The house is an anthracite colored trapezoid covered with a unique 5 angle metal roof. The public spaces weave through the plan and remain open and welcoming, while the “solid” spaces, the private spaces, are intimate and soothing. The interior ceiling follows the roof lines, resulting in unique configurations in each space that refract natural light, being lower over intimate spaces and higher over public spaces. The light-filled interior develops a visual and physical connection to the adjacent gardens, with each opening offering its own natural light throughout the day.
Interiors of white walls and white oak floors result in understated, contemporary spaces that remain lit and welcoming. The open-plan kitchen is a dark central core that mirrors the blackened exterior, drawing attention as the focal point and heart of this contemporary residence. The rest of the plan winds out of the kitchen as a play of bodies and voids. In the evening, the blackened exterior fades in the dark, leaving a steady glow where the portals occur. What remains is a floating black silhouette containing a collage of form and light.
Design for integration. The south-facing roof was designed to incorporate a 14kW photovoltaic array into the architectural form, performance and colour. The angle and orientation allows the panels to maximize efficiency throughout the day, while the dark color allows the panels to blend seamlessly with the roof. The highly insulated building envelope allows for several unique design options. Full Zip-R outer insulation and jacketing has been used to provide a high performance R-27 wall with R-6 insulation throughout. The added thickness of the continuous insulation on the outside of the structure creates the feeling that the structure levitates slightly off the ground while allowing for integrated flush downspouts and gutters.
Sustainably obtained wood products were selected as renewable raw materials for the project. The wood selected is locally available, requires little energy to produce and is recyclable/biodegradable, providing a sustainable product throughout its life cycle. Its warmth, ease of use and natural aesthetic made it a great choice for sustainable design. The Acoyya wood exterior is FSC and Cradle to Cradle Certified™.
Design for Energy. A 14kW photovoltaic array has been seamlessly integrated into the architecture to provide on-site power generation. The house has been modeled to ensure that the energy produced meets the needs of the users. In addition, Energy Star equipment, low-flow water fixtures, and electric car outlets were provided. Together, the highly insulated building envelope, the efficient heating and cooling system and the high-efficiency boilers reduce the stress on the systems in the house. In addition, the multiple zones and controls provide efficiency by saving energy requirements. Abundant natural daylight floods the home through low-E, high-efficiency glazing, skylights and lightwells. This not only ensures well-being, but also minimizes the need for artificial light during the day. LED lights limit energy consumption during the night, and motion sensors in closets and bathrooms ensure lights are turned off when not in use.
Design for wellness. Abundant natural daylight floods the house and creates a feeling of well-being and health. The large skylights and window wells allow light to enter all levels of the home. Large, covered deck spaces provide sheltered gatherings on all sides of the structure, encouraging user engagement outdoors and in connection with the outdoor spaces. Every hallway or corridor ends with a view of the outside. The large, welcoming porch encourages interactions with neighbors and activates the neighborhood.
Existing and new trees shade a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces. Large, operable windows and doors, a sophisticated mechanical system and low-VOC products ensure fresh air and healthy indoor air quality. A water purification system was supplied along with low flow water fittings. The house is within walking distance to public bus services and the city of Boulder’s extensive network of bike paths and hiking trails. The personal gym provides a place to work out at home when not participating in one of Boulder’s many outdoor activities.
