TREE HOUSE Joining of two Families Situated in Cuernavaca, Mexico within the enclosed wall urban landscape, Oscar and his wife Anna are looking to maximize a small parcel to be fitted for their minimalistic needs and to offer a rental with similar accommodations. Their intent is to have their long time friend’s move in, Mauricio and Lily. However they would also request to allow at times upmost privacy when working and while in their private bed quarters. They would also like to gear attention to the home entry and have a front yard court for each home. The design intent is to symbolize the harmonious relationship of these two families by a metaphorical family tree that conjoins their lives. The hearth is the central opening that connects them together. The tree is defined by the solid spine that separates the families and as the tree grows from the center it gradually opens up and branches out over each of the homes, placing them under one family tree of equality. Directional suggestion of each entry by means of geometric symbolism, abruptly points you in the direction of travel to the main entrance. The Office is up front facing the public and acting as a barrier and watch tower during the day. The Family rooms open up to each other to a semi covered patio, where the two families can entertain and enjoy each other’s company. The bedrooms are as private as can be, with no visibility to anyone, and each room features a private garden, as one of them has a covered and screen in garden facing the front yard. The design is symmetrical in plan.
Module 6: Programming III: The Outside Comes In Assignment 6.1: Long Section
School of Architecture
03-18-2018 Page - 23
Anthony P. Ashford ARH 653 OL, Spring 2018 Instructor: Jose Ramon