Dawnsknoll
Dawnsknoll
minarc
ARCHITECTS
Minarc
SIZE
1000 Sqft - 3000 Sqft
STATUS
Built
BUDGET
$500k - 1m
YEAR
2014
LOCATION
Santa Monica, CA, United States
TYPE
Residential › Private House
Dawnsknoll, Santa Monica, CA
Dawnsknoll is built using mnmMOD a revolutionary building system. It is a panelized building system that introduces the economy and waste-reduction of pre-fab.
As it yields ‘net-zero’ efficiency, it also allows for a reduction of manpower during construction. Builders also benefit from rapid construction that replaces standard wood frame building techniques.
The building system allows us to build a healthy environment for the modern builder. A home with no mold, no termites, no waste on site nor in the factory; a building made out of recycled material that can be recyclable-a cradle to cradle building.
Thermal barrier high energy efficiency makes the building a better choice and lowers the cost of running it. Minarc focuses on sustainability, color, and space.
A conscious effort in using only materials in their most organic form- no tile, no carpet and use of recycled material where possible- recycled rubber sink and cladding on the juice bar cabinets.
Design elements are oriented to take optimum advantage of natural light and cross ventilation, with a maximum respect for privacy, while there is a maximum use of natural light to cut down the electrical cost.
One feature where natural ventilation comes into play is with the interior/exterior courtyards and the master and living room sliders.
Sustainable heating is also introduced through radiant floor heating and domestic water heating
throughout the house.
The design and use of color is inspired by the Icelandic dramatic landscapes to create contrasting stimulating interiors.
The orange (volcanic) creates a multi-functional gathering point in the heart of the house. The swimming pool has a blue lagoon color and the cabinets are the colors of glaciers and lava.
The upstairs bookshelf functions as railings/barriers between floor plans and evocates the glaciers by using white sylestone and panelite. Our responsibility as designers is to create a functional, well-defined, and
inhabitable space with solutions for the modern world.
The heated patio and fireplace for outdoor dining maximizes indoor/outdoor living while the river rocks in the exterior courtyard provide for a soothing ambiance.
Furthermore, floor material is connected in an unobtrusive and whimsical manner to increase the flow and space of the home. To maximize the use of space, the “disappearing” kitchen chairs are easily stored under the island
