frank gehry: house for the make it right foundation

‘make it right foundation house’ by frank gehry, new orleans, louisiana image © chad chenier photography / make it right all images courtesy of make it right foundation

los angeles-based architect frank gehry has designed a home for the make it right foundation in the lower 9th ward of new orleans, louisiana. the 1,780 square foot duplex features rooftop terraces shaded with a waterproof canopy of solar panels which generate clean energy for the site. two-toned with teacup rose along the main elevation and lily lilac in the rear, the front-to back positioning of the residences improves circulation within the dwellings. stacking stairways, bathrooms and a great room with the kitchen, dining and living area encourage construction efficiency.

the exterior is clad with a siding of fiber cement boards to resist cracking, rot, termites and weather damage for a span of 50 years. the framing lumber which elevates and frames the structures is treated to repel moisture, fungus, wood rot and insects. a 26-gauge metal roof protects the lower level porches, requiring little maintenance while minimizing solar gain and needs to cool the dwelling.

second residence image © chad chenier photography / make it right

additional features include low-E windows to insulate from the seasonal changes in temperature. zero VOC paints eliminate off-gassing. cabinets are formed with sustainably harvested woods grown in environmentally conscious methods while flooring is a laminated hardwood which uses 50% less wood. countertops are formed with 75% recycled raw material including glass, mirror, porcelain and corn oil resin.

kitchen + living space of the teacup rose residence image © chad chenier photography / make it right

‘I really believe in what brad is doing for the community and was honored to be included, I wanted to make a house that I would like to live in and one that responded to the history, vernacular and climate of new orleans. I love the colors that the homeowner chose. I could not have done it better.’ – frank gehry

kitchen + living space of the lily lilac residence image © chad chenier photography / make it right