HI55

The design emphasizes aesthetics of an object as an intrinsic value over concepts of architecture as a neutral place holder for human activity. This concept is rooted in the fertility of design on its own and its transformative power, both socially and economically. The basic concept for the design stems from the application of quantitative and qualitative parametric variables as applicable to the site. These variables begin with quantitative criteria such as the orientation of building for solar optimization and noise reduction, to qualitative criteria such as breathability of the adjacent neighbors. Directionality of lines in architecture have power due to the gravitational forces exuded by the earth and foreseeable forces of nature such as earthquakes. Horizontal architecture is more difficult to realize and to build than a vertical architecture. When the mass tectonics are shifted horizontally, not only does this mass break and diminish in scale, but it also relegates power and excitement to its reader. The spatial arrangement is derived from peeling and lifting the landscape in a spiral order to shape the floor plates of the project that follow the natural topography of the land in a split-level configuration. Through a series of operatives that imbue actants, the primary mass is shifted to allow for proper orientation and integration with the communal space. These operatives provide for an internal / external living space, through setbacks on the ground floor or orienting the openings toward the street. The garage is also oriented as to allow direct access to the building.