Courtyard house

This new two-story house in Palo Alto, CA, takes advantage of passive solar energy and resources of its atypical site. By arranging habitable rooms around a south facing courtyard, lower level family spaces are aligned with the movement of the sun in summer and winter, benefitting from the changing quality of natural light. Sunlight and fresh air are enjoyed outside at the terrace and balconies, while a shaded verandah keeps inhabitants cool on summer evenings. Design incorporates client preferences in materials and stylistic elements. A range of transitional and outdoor spaces are interspersed as an integral part of the family’s lifestyle.