The Mid-Century Modern style of Eichler is still prominent in California and the Wavelet House offers a contemporary reinterpretation of it, where the interplay of materials and volumes creates an original and surprising architecture.
Built on a narrow lot with setbacks on the sides and designed by Fougeron Architecture, the evocative facade inspired by mid-century hides a surprisingly modern back. The metal and wood slats at the entrance provide a sober aesthetic while ensuring greater privacy for the residents. The asymmetry of materials in the front courtyard evokes the playful and dynamic spirit found at the back of the house.
The back side of the house, enclosed in a continuous glass facade that reaches almost three stories in height at its highest point, creates a sense of lightness in contrast to the angularity of the metal overhang of the roof. Part of the inspiration for this structure comes from the constraints imposed by local building regulations, which prefer stepped roofs. The roof is conceived as an architectural umbrella, its undulating lines and metallic planes guide the eye along the building's profile, transforming the traditional concept of a roof into a sculptural architectural gesture.
The house is surrounded by three sunken courtyards that intertwine, maximizing natural light and creating open yet sheltered spaces that anchor the residence to the site. The music room, guest bedroom, and office each overlook their own private courtyard. In this way, despite the structure appearing extremely open and transparent, the courtyards provide secluded spaces and moments of privacy. It is a perfect balance between openness and intimacy, a recurring theme in many contemporary architectural projects.
Inside, the focal point of the house is a double-height library, a spacious and glass-walled area, with custom-made cedar and steel shelving that echoes the external slats. These bookshelves become architectural elements that visually separate, but without interrupting the flow of spaces. Around the library, the other rooms develop, on all levels, giving life to a house where culture, light, and the dialogue between interior and exterior are absolute protagonists.
