01_LHOM (Last House On Mulholland)
The project for 1610 Mulholland Hwy is a shield-building with a very protective shape: the inner space is a secret and sheltered one, and the building ‘shell’ only opens where the big covering terrace is located. Just like a tree protecting its roots with its foliage, this ‘house-tree’ casts a shade towards the base of the structure, protecting it from the sun in any radiation condition and keeping its base cool and aired. Moreover the building has a real ‘bark’ against external agents: a coat of reinforced cork foam of about 3,14 inches obtained from the waste products of bottle corks production. In addition to that, the foliage-terrace provides the house with light and air, as it happens in a real tree.
02
The main living level is just underneath the cover and it is illuminated with natural light passing through a series of big openings on the ceiling. These openings are screenable and can be electrically controlled, also automatically, thanks to the air and light management system for the interiors. The other floors are indirectly illuminated by solar ducts (circular cross section metal pipes conveying the light intercepted on the surface through oriented mirrors and light-diffusing glasses).
03
On the intermediate floor there is a gym with areas for fitness and wellness. Nevertheless, this level can be organized according to client’s preferences also for guest rooms, playing areas, a cinema or other facilities. The entrance floor, situated at the road access level, is earmarked for the garage and the house main entrance. Underneath the garage, in the basement, there is a technical room containing a rainwater basin and treatment station, besides other equipment. This system guarantees long water autonomy for the building.
04
The load bearing structure is realized in reinforced concrete and steel. On the terrace one can find a swimming pool, a solarium, a bar, a barbecue area, green spaces and a bringing together / relax area. The terrace can house several guests and can be earmarked for parties.
05
A stair and an elevator, working independently due to their position inside the building, guarantee all links. The three pedestrian openings of the house (main entrance, garage door and terrace trapdoor to stairs) are run by pneumatic mechanisms working with identification codes (digital code or finger / eye print) in order to keep high security and privacy levels for the whole building.
