Spanish architecture firm Selgascano has ventured into the hills of northeast Los Angeles to create an extraordinary residence called La Canaria. Collaborating with architect Diego Cano from LA and Madrid, the team has perched this vibrant home on a steep hillside in Mount Washington, a residential neighborhood. The front of La Canaria boasts a playful facade adorned with warm, colorful hues, adding a touch of liveliness to the surroundings.
One of the most captivating features of La Canaria is its distant, panoramic view that stretches across the Elysian Valley, encompassing iconic California landmarks such as downtown LA, the Echo Park hills, Silver Lake, and Hollywood. Positioned facing southwest, the residence is bathed in the glorious warmth of Californian sunlight. However, the architects at Selgascano have skillfully addressed the challenge of harsh sunlight by striking a balance between unobstructed views and effective shading.
Their design approach revolves around two key objectives: preserving the sweeping California views while mitigating the intensity of the sunlight. The resulting structure not only mirrors the horizon but also pays homage to the golden hues of the LA sunset through its facade of shading screens. These screens not only provide relief from the sun’s glare but also create a visually striking aesthetic.
Recognizing the importance of outdoor living in Los Angeles’ temperate climate, Selgascano has curated a seamless transition between the interior and exterior spaces. A spacious outdoor terrace, equivalent in size to the interior, acts as a natural extension of the living quarters. This thoughtful design allows residents to fully embrace the beauty of their surroundings while enjoying the comforts of their home.
Furthermore, a groundbreaking outdoor enclosure encompasses both indoor and outdoor spaces, offering protection from the sun while framing the breathtaking panoramic views. The facade of La Canaria is instantly recognizable, as Selgascano skillfully constructs it using recycled aluminum tubes. Adorned with vibrant shades reminiscent of the LA sunset, this “covering” acts as a safeguarding canopy for the residence.
As time passes, the architects envision nature reclaiming this structure, with creeping vines, lush foliage, and carefully selected palm trees seamlessly blending with the Canary-yellow shading device, blurring the boundaries between architecture and the surrounding environment.
Despite its unique design and meticulous craftsmanship, La Canaria remains a tribute to affordability. Acknowledging the exorbitant costs associated with construction in Los Angeles, the architects meticulously planned every aspect, from dimensions to materials, to ensure cost-effectiveness. The prefabrication of components outside of Los Angeles and their subsequent installation within a short timeframe exemplify the studio’s unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional quality while adhering to budget constraints.
La Canaria is a testament to Selgascano‘s innovative approach to architecture, blending vibrant aesthetics with practical solutions. It stands as a remarkable example of how architecture can harmoniously coexist with nature, creating a truly captivating living experience.