The design process began with the intention to retain, upgrade, and restore as much as possible of the original construction, with the new interventions and additions progressively layered in and seamlessly integrated. Lead architect David Saik has created a kind of ‘architectural natural diversity’, with the old and new supporting each other in the creation of an indivisible whole.
The goal of zero energy self sustaining operation is achieved through solar energy, with the central light-well and skylights introduced to bring natural light to each space and effectively generate passive ventilation and cooling within and between the levels of the building. Planting was introduced throughout, from the cactus in the interior to a roof garden of succulents in the rear yard.
