Craig Steely Architecture has recently finished the Flower House in the suburbs of San Francisco. Tailored for a family of three, this residential project is a repurposed neighborhood corner store distinguished by its simple geometries, multifaceted volumes, varying heights, and an array of openings.
Rather than tearing down the existing structure, the firm has opted to embrace adapting and reusing it, honoring the building’s history and location. ‘Our reinterpretation of the building doesn’t erase the past, but it also doesn’t bow down to it,’ the studio explains.
Upon entering the Flower House, the space reveals itself as an open-plan layout divided by a freestanding flower-shaped tower crafted from warm wood. Craig Steely Architecture strategically arranges the remaining indoor living areas around this sculptural feature, incorporating the same wooden accents throughout to create a sense of cohesion.
In the kitchen, a vibrant yellow hue adorns the linear counter, harmonizing with the brown details, white walls, and concrete floors. Across from the flower-shaped tower is the living room, furnished with pieces and artworks curated by interior design firm Studio Ahead.
A large circular opening floods the space with natural light, while a sharp, roof-like structure looms overhead, juxtaposing the organic shapes of the wooden element. A staircase leads to the more private zones, including a study and bedroom offering picturesque vistas of San Francisco’s skyline.
As night descends, the Flower House’s warm illumination emanates through the various openings, transforming into a sculptural lantern.