CURL

Challenging the basic form of the lifeguard tower into a more organic form was the main goal of this project. Considering the basic functions of the ordinary lifeguard tower in Venice Beach, California, the inspiration for such a monolithic creation could be achieved with the inspiration of the artistic spirit of the surrounding beach and lifestyle. With these factors in mind, the process for the design began with the natural phenomenas of the beach and ocean.

TYPE:

LIFEGUARD TOWER

LOCATION: VENICE, CA

YEAR: 2021

MENTOR: STEFFEN LEHMANN

Orient towards the ocean. Minimalistic form for tower identification

Splay open for more views Identify with the basic curling of a wave Add the hut and stairs for access. Keeping transparency on the top and bottom levels

Minor cuts on the walls for near 360 degree views of the beach/ocean

Section and Design

The lifeguard tower gives access to beach goers on the journey towards the ocean. This allows for even more access on the entire beach area as well as being able to go under the hut portion of the tower for extended storage or shelter from the sun. It essentially creates the view towards the ocean completly visible. This plays with the idea that it is almost invisible yet so monolithic on the sand.

Southeast Section and Elevation

On the second level, access is given to the lifeguards by the small stairs following the curl of the facade. The top level has enough space for lifeguards to go on the small balcony or the interior of the tower. In the elevations below, the steel panels mimic the beach sky colors showcasing each unique color of the sky and surrounding site. It stands like a sculpture-like piece inspired from the art culture of Venice while still maintaining its function to serve the lifeguards and hide fluidly into the beach sky.

Views

The lifeguard tower mostly consists of steel and wood for its construction. Wood was utilized for the hut portion construction and for a slight callback to original materials used in ordinary lifeguard towers. The interior is the area mostly using the wood features with minimal finishes and soft lighting.