Daniel Pantelas ARCH1390-2011

Final Re-envisioned Design & Presentation

500 words

THE POSEIDON

“A place where the sun sets, an allusion to a place that exists only in our mind, in our senses, that is ever-changing and mutable, but is nonetheless real” - Ensamble Studio

God of the sea, protector of waters, my re-envisioned piece of architecture is named after the majestic Greek God Poseidon. Located in a picturesque landscape overlooking the ocean, the inconspicuous house from the front unlocks a heroic multilevel oasis. The structure holds and powerful stance over a cliff’s edge where each of its three levels balance on a cantilevered structural frame. The Poseidon’s uncommon shape and concrete walls convey a unique space that also ensures a level of comfort and relaxation.

Looking from a distance the structure looks as if it’s placed in an apparently unstable equilibrium; however all its structural components enclose living spaces which defy gravity. The Poseidon is an audacious structure with a generous four car garage that comes to an abrupt end on a cantilevered platform. The one bedroom structure becomes great for entertaining on its two expansive lower decks. The third level houses a bath pool which spans over the edge of the concrete slab. With the key idea of balance and counterweight in mind, faith is needed to venture to surrounding areas and platforms.

The contemporary design was originally influence by Antón García-Abril’s Hemeroscopium House, where a range of structural beams counterbalance each other. Just like the Hemeroscopium House, The Poseidon traps, a domestic space, and a detached horizon. From a person’s very first step, they are no longer themselves daring to be whatever they please as they adventure through house. Each part of the structure is exposed to the elements. Large wind deflectors are placed on either side to reduce the effects of strong winds and whirling seas. Every step is taken with caution as you get the feeling of uncertainty. This is slowly lost in the panoramic views that lead out to sea.

Through The Poseidon House a piece of architecture that may look unfinished, incomplete or broken comes together. The state of infrastructure that is a raw and exposed progresses into a sublime and mystical state. The bare structure stripped from fancy cladding and it’s aesthetic appeal allows you to see what structurally holds it together. This becomes a new found beauty where most of the architectural qualities of the house conquer. By making things off balance and deconstructing those in a way new forms and spaces can be created. Architecture doesn’t just come from being a finished product; it can be raw and exposed still conveying a space for living and entertainment. This is strongly conveyed in the original Hemeroscopium House and is a central idea that prevails though The Poseidon House concept.

Shadows are casted without expression through the raw exposed structure. Light is however controlled through rotating shutters on the west side of the high pitched roof. Natural light can enter the house on demand leaving a fresh and vibrant feel for any occupant. The shutters also allow for cross ventilation as the calming ocean breeze cuts through the rough solid roof and concrete walls. At night illuminated L.E.D glass panels surround the house and set the mood for any occasion after sun down.

Video Walkthrough showcasing design