[ R AY K A P P E | W H AT M A K E S A L E G E N D ]
RK The spatial quality of the house came about because of the site
condition. The house is sited parallel to the street, making the hill behind it
address the structure at 45 degrees. The solution was a direct response to
the underground springs. By raising the residence above the site, the land
runs continuous through the structure, which is supported by six concrete
towers.
The roof is at about the same level as the flat land at the top of the hill, and
it's used as a deck in conjunction with the 50-foot lap pool and pool house.
This in essence creates three levels of land use—all of the land under the
house, the floor levels, and the roof level.
For me, the creative process in any project stems from the owner's program,
the site conditions, and the constraints [from] the planning and building
departments. Most architectural projects are not designed in the abstract or
created with some grand concept.
SBD Looking ahead, what are your thoughts on the future of architecture
in Southern California?
RK I suppose it will continue much as it is presently. However, technological
advances could make changes that are hard to predict. I am sure there will
be more mixed-use and densification, especially around transit stops.
SBD What kind of impact has Southern California architecture had around
the world?
RK I think Southern California residential architecture has always been
SBD Your home has been widely acclaimed for its design. Is there something about the
creative process that you consider particularly unique?
influential. It was especially so during the time that Arts and Architecture was
published in Los Angeles. Today we have several influential architects with international
reputations that have inspired national and international architects.
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ARCHITECT | DESIGN | BUILD 12.13.2013
