This site-built house is a development of the original OMD Swellhouse. A modular grid of exposed steel columns and beams orchestrates the spatial and structural design of this open live-work project. A SIP (Structural Insulated Panel) system of prefabricated wall and roof panels provide further modular structural stability, as well as thermal and acoustic insulation. The prefabricated SIP panels were assembled in a remote factory, trucked to the site, and set in place manually.

This 3500 sf house has been separated into two buildings - the residence at Brooks Avenue and the garage with a recording studio above at the alley. The two structures frame a central courtyard. Two existing mature palm trees, and the 40 ft by 130 ft. lot’s setbacks determined the placement of the structures.

The steel frame allows for large expanses of glass at the first floor, where the plan is open for living, cooking and dining. The kitchen is by Linea. Each wall plane parallel to Brooks Ave. contains all glass with central sliding doors. The remainder of the first floor is clad with metal panels. The upper floors, containing bedrooms, bathrooms and the recording studio, are more enclosed for privacy and are clad in stucco.

Ceilings are high and the steel ‘I’ beams are exposed on the interior. A radiant tube heat system warms the concrete floor at the first floor. The second floor contains Brazilian Cherry wood. The recording studio has been fitted out with specific acoustic treatments. Exterior balconies with Ipe wood decking face the courtyard in a mirror image. All mechanical, electrical, pool, and water filtration systems run along the east edge of the site.