Shapiro Residence

Description

This concrete and steel house evolved through the necessity to provide a series of concrete retaining walls as the house steps up a 40-degree slope. The desire for maximum glass to provide view and deck access was satisfied by the use of the steel rigid frames. The existing garage and first floor of an existing house were maintained, and new concrete walls paralleling the front and side yard setbacks were added to maximise these existing spaces and provide privacy for the entry level court.

The consistent minimum material palette, concrete floors, and monochromatic colour scheme provide a minimalist quality to the interiors as they step up the hill to maximum height. This progression up, to, and through the various levels is sequenced with a series of stairs beginning at the entry gate and rising up to the entrance court and glass entry door. The next set of stairs arrives at the major space of the residence, which includes the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Finally one encounters a final stairway that continues past the entrance to the master bedroom, out a rear glass door and up to the pool pavilion.

The house was originally designed for a bachelor who wanted the entry-level rooms to serve as an office and guest bedroom, and include a private court where he could engage in tai chi. The master bedroom, dressing, and bath were placed on the third level. Having married since, the couple now has a small child and the original office area is now the child's room.