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Moreno

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Floor to ceiling sliding glass walls open the central living space to outdoor courtyards - Joe Fletcher
Main entry - Joe Fletcher
A freestanding main stair connects upper and lower floors. - Joe Fletcher
Floor to ceiling sliding glass walls open the central living space to outdoor courtyards - Joe Fletcher

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Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
House
5.07
6.00
5.49
5.59
5.54
Client
Christian Robert. Lauren Noecker
Floor area
641 ㎡
Completion
2023
Social Media
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Interior Designer
Landscape Architect

Drawing inspiration from Los Angeles’ low-slung bungalows and international style homes, Moreno stands as a testament to southern California's climate, a stripped-down aesthetic, and an emphasis on materiality and craft.

The design reflects the German roots of the architect homeowner and his wife, a west coast native. A study in contrast, the home merges their strong individual sensibilities, alongside needs that are often conceptually at odds. The residence is both an oasis for family, and a place for entertainment. Full of daylight, open, and transparent, it offers private spaces, separate wings, and hidden access. It is at once both intimate and voluminous.

The main floor is anchored around a continuous corridor opening to central courtyards. Floor to ceiling sliding glass walls open to seamlessly connect the ground floor indoor living spaces with courtyard gardens and dining areas. Light penetrates every part of the house, changing throughout the day and painting rooms in dappled light and shadow. Nature and architecture integrate within the design to ensure a seamless flow and visual connection between interior and exterior space.

The two-story structure encompasses seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a gym, a children’s playroom, and a home office, with a freestanding main stair connecting the upper and lower floors. The ground floor east wing houses private and functional spaces, while the west wing unfolds into open, public areas. Meticulous attention was devoted to customizing every detail to elevate the living experience. A fusion of subtle materials, bespoke furnishings, and state-of-the-art technology creates an ambiance that is both timeless and avant-garde. An outdoor pool area completes the urban escape.

Designed with sustainable principles in mind, the design maximizes daylight and views into the project landscape, while simultaneously minimizing solar heat gain by reducing openings and embedded natural shading. The morning sun reflects on the eastern façade of the courtyard into the dining area, while the western facing façade is shaded against the afternoon sun. Initially the family considered forgoing air-conditioning, but settled on an efficient VRF system that splits the house into 11 zones. This allows targeted heating and cooling of specific areas when necessary. Additional insulation was installed inside the walls and a cool roof was selected. Draught tolerant flora was meticulously selected for year-round and seasonal qualities. Hardscape was reduced to a minimum with outdoor surface areas covered in gravel or artificial turf. The project features three EV chargers. A rooftop solar system is awaiting approval, permitting and installation.

The residence embodies the ethos of contemporary living while embracing the allure of timeless design principles. The integration of contrasting aesthetics harmoniously merges culture, architecture, and landscape, creating a modern design approach that is uniquely of Los Angeles.