anonymous architects has added to its portfolio of dramatic hillside residences with an abode that exists amid a grouping of tall trees. despite its echo park location — a densely populated neighborhood in central LA — the site is characterized by a remote and secluded feeling. ‘it is an unusual paradox to have such a natural setting that occurs in the middle of los angeles — a city known for its endless sprawl and crawling traffic,‘ says the design team.

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all images by steve king and michael wells

 

 

anonymous architects sought to preserve the site’s natural features as much as possible, even to the extent of having a tree grow through one of the home’s bedrooms. positioned towards the center of plot to ensure privacy, the property cantilevers above the steep terrain, minimizing the need for foundations and maintaining yard space for natural vegetation.

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the timber-clad abode exists amid a grouping of tall trees

 

 

the dwelling has been organized as two separate units, united beneath a single roof. the main part of the house comprises two bedrooms, while the other component — separated by an outdoor breezeway — is entirely self-contained, with one bedroom, a living area, a bathroom, and a kitchen. ‘this secondary area is used daily as an office and entertainment area, but can easily be closed off from the main space and used by visiting friends or family,’ adds anonymous.

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the dwelling has been organized as two separate units, united beneath a single roof

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the library features an integrated staircase that provides storage for books

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the use of wood in continued internally

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the residence presents sweeping views across the landscape below

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a tree grows through one of the dwelling’s bedrooms

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a self-contained part of the house is separated by an outdoor breezeway

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a porch runs along the rear of home

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the property’s entrance with space for parked cars

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‘house in trees’ is located in echo park, a densely populated neighborhood in LA

 

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anonymous architects house in trees echo park los angeles california designboom
 
anonymous architects house in trees echo park los angeles california designboom
 
anonymous architects house in trees echo park los angeles california designboom
 
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anonymous architects house in trees echo park los angeles california designboom
 
anonymous architects house in trees echo park los angeles california designboom
 
anonymous architects house in trees echo park los angeles california designboom
 

 

project info:

 

name: house in trees
location: echo park, los angeles, california
clients: alex klein & joanie ellen
architect: simon storey, anonymous architects
photography: steve king & michael wells
building area: 2,000 sqf (approx. 200 sqm)
method of construction: concrete pile foundation with concrete pilasters above grade; steel (primary floor structure – cantilevers); timber floor, walls and roof
primary materials: western red cedar (fire treated); standing seam metal roofing
interior materials: reclaimed chestnut flooring, concrete slab floors, walnut cabinetry, hexagon floor tile
brand names/ products used: bertazzoni kitchen appliances, duravit whiteware (sinks), hansgrohe faucets and fixtures (bathrooms). la cantina bi-folding doors

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