Client Brief:
The clients wanted a compact, efficient guest house that maximizes its small footprint while providing a strong connection to the outdoors. The design needed to accommodate comfortable living spaces, including 2 bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, and an open living area, all within a limited square footage.
Location:
Situated on an urban lot in the desert climate of Phoenix, Arizona, the guest house needed to address the challenges of intense sunlight and heat while complementing the existing property.
Design Solution:
"casiTa," named for its 'T'-shaped plan, efficiently organizes the space by placing two symmetrical bedrooms on either side of a central core that houses the kitchen, laundry, and bathroom. Adjacent to this core is an open living area that feels spacious despite the home's compact size of 974 square feet. A standout feature is the 12-foot-wide, 750-pound pivot door that opens the living area to an additional 255 square feet of outdoor space covered by a cantilevered roof. With a simple push, the indoor space seamlessly extends to the patio, enhancing the living area and fostering a strong connection to the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling glass on the south, north, and east elevations, shaded by the large roof overhang, allows natural light to fill the interior while mitigating heat gain. The exterior employs low-maintenance materials like board-formed concrete, stucco, steel, and glass, with a custom-patterned stained plywood ceiling, all chosen for durability and aesthetic appeal.
Result:
"casiTa" is a unique, spacious-feeling guest house within a small footprint. The use of durable, low-maintenance materials ensures longevity in the desert climate, and the design offers the ability to be adapted for other environments. The project demonstrates how design can maximize functionality and connection to the outdoors in a compact dwelling.
