The House that Learned to Fly
Once upon a time in Los Angeles there was a cottage by a stream. Today it is a «bridge» that crosses it
Words Simona Siri — Photos Brandon Shigeta
Two years ago, Dan Brunn Architecture began construction of what is now known as the Bridge House, spanning a stream. An example of “extraordinary architecture made with ordinary means”, says Brunn, already a rising star in 2005 when he founded his firm. The idea for the bridge came from two developments. First Brunn was contacted by a Canadian firm called BOnE Structure makes modular construction systems in 89% recycled steel. Second, on a trip to Rhode Island he saw The Breakers, the vacation home of the Vanderbilt family built in 1895, referencing Italian Renaissance style. The modern profile of the Bridge House may seem quite different, but it was here that Brunn got some of the basic ideas for his project.
Above all, he was intrigued by the idea of the motor court, but also by the general architectural approach, in relation to the surrounding natural setting. Instead of occupying the space over the stream, the Bridge House tapers to minimize its impact. With a length of 64 meters and an area of 450 m2, the house actually stands on just 45 linear meters of land: the other 19 are raised over the stream. “It is like a natural divider between public and private portions”, Brunn goes on.
The house features a filtering system, supplying potable water. The ample northern exposure and narrow design bring natural light, cutting down on energy bills, contributing to achieve the goal of zero emissions. natural ventilation is boosted by a series of skylight vents. The layout: dining room, kitchen, living area, master suite with closet, two bedrooms with shared bath, one bedroom with private bath. As well as a terrace, a laundry room, a garage, a pool house on the lower level. The private garden, just outside the master bedroom, has been designed as a living area in tune with nature.