This is architecture created to witness light in its many forms and responses. Sometimes the interior walls dissolve and disappear. The exposed south glass lets the sun bounce off the polished surfaces to create an ever-changing spectrum of light shards that transform the interior volume. The translucent white glass wall captures the reflections like a slow-motion movie. From the living space, the north view into the courtyard is a framed portrait of rooftop louvers making abstract shadow paintings on a 35’ wide concrete wall throughout the day. This is architecture made of light, for light. It is a place where light and its presence are palpable.
At ground level, the louvered courtyard enclosure slows the wind at human height to a summer breeze. The elevated roof deck (12’ above ground level) is protected by 4 independently operable louver walls, allowing control from all 4 directions. The 30’ wide sliding glass wall on the north can be opened the south wind is slowed by a louvered courtyard.
Temperature: Comfortable living during Oklahoma’s summer translates to seeking shade from the hot sun and catching a cool breeze. Cold winds require a wind block. Wind is constant on the plains of Oklahoma and offers benefits and challenges. We learn to control it.
The design responds to the natural regional conditions by incorporating sustainable features such as the use of local and recycled materials, eliminating the need for imported soil, and restoring prairie grass at the building pad. Additionally, native grasses and trees are planted to support the local ecosystem and promote environmental harmony.
Operable louver panels control the sun and wind
The building reflects early childhood visions of people and pastures. Memories of metal farm buildings that dotted the land. This project responds to the farm building aesthetic. As if growing amidst the native grass, this is a building planted in this place.
The wife grew up in Tulsa, spending memorable evenings on the roof observing the stars with her father. We designed a rooftop deck with amazing views to observe or sleep under the stars.
The design includes essential amenities such as a toilet, shower/tub, grooming mirrors, and a minimal kitchen. The Bedbox features a rollaway bed, bookshelves, and additional storage space, while the central table conceals six hidden chairs for flexible seating. The property also includes a detached one-car garage, and the entire north-facing glass wall can be opened completely to seamlessly connect the indoor living area with the outdoor space.
Category:Vacation HomesYear:2020Location:Logan County, Oklahoma, USA Architects:Rand Elliott Architects Design Team: Rand Elliott, Sam Moore, and Joseph WilliamsGeneral Contractor:Lingo Construction Services, Inc.Client: PrivatePhotographer: Scott McDonald
