Blue Truck Studio, the renowned design firm from San Francisco, undertook a remarkable renovation project in the heart of Manhattan Beach, California, giving birth to the enchanting 30th Street house. This 3,770-square-foot (350.2-square-metre) residence, nestled in the scenic beauty of Manhattan Beach, received a stunning transformation through the skillful addition of cedar siding by Blue Truck Studio. Completed in the 1990s, this property showcases an intriguing blend of architectural innovation and natural elegance.
The choice of Alaskan yellow cedar for cladding was a deliberate decision by the studio, aimed at softening the unconventional geometries of the house while infusing it with the tranquil ambiance of Northern California. This unique wood, when weathered, takes on a beautiful grey hue, reminiscent of the architecture found in the coastal community of The Sea Ranch.
Prior to the renovation, the 30th Street house boasted a design with wild geometry, featuring octagon-shaped rooms and triangular spaces. The challenge presented to Blue Truck Studio was to transform this eccentric structure into a home characterized by simple forms and rustic textures, akin to the architectural aesthetics of The Sea Ranch. The studio’s approach was not to alter the existing geometries but to reimagine the arrangement of windows across the facades.
One distinctive feature retained in the redesign was the octagonal unit that extends from one side of the house. Additionally, the two rectangular volumes that protrude from the facade and the angular structure that comprises the second level were also preserved. These unique architectural elements added to the charm and character of the 30th Street house.
The rear elevation of the house reveals a garage and an outdoor shower, enhancing its functionality. The sides of the house are adorned with gabled rooflines and windows, adorned with wooden slats that harmoniously match the cedar cladding. These slats not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also serve as screens in front of some of the windows, regulating sunlight and providing an element of privacy.
Beyond the exterior cladding, Blue Truck Studio employed wood in various aspects of the house’s design. The keyless pivot door was seamlessly integrated with the house using wood, maintaining a consistent visual language. The interior stairwell was also framed by wood, creating a sense of cohesion and warmth throughout the residence.
The clients, a family of four, had a vision for this holiday house that extended beyond its aesthetics. They sought to create a space where they could be in proximity to their relatives and engage in the abundant outdoor activities offered by the region. The studio responded to their desires by incorporating spacious gathering areas, an outdoor shower, and even a soccer field into the property, ensuring that there was room for various activities and recreation.
Ingeniously, part of the garage unit was converted into an art studio and play area, enhancing the versatility of the property. To further open up the interiors, a central fireplace in the living room was removed, creating a more inviting and expansive atmosphere. The interior design follows a theme of light-colored hardwood floors paired with angular white walls, creating an ambiance of contemporary elegance.
Wood accents are not limited to the exterior but extend into the heart of the house. The kitchen cabinetry, shelving units, window coverings, and outdoor bench seating all exhibit the beauty of wood craftsmanship, adding warmth and a sense of connection with nature to the interior spaces.
Natural light plays a vital role in illuminating the interiors, streaming through a row of sliding glass doors that open from the main living spaces onto two outdoor decks. These decks provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living, inviting the beautiful California landscape into the home.
The architectural ingenuity extends to the second floor, where the floor plan narrows at the center, creating a patio on one side of the ground floor. This patio is adorned with a slatted wooden roof, allowing the soft caress of sunlight to filter through. On the opposite side, the roof is punctuated by a skylight, further enhancing the interplay of light and shadow in the house.
The slender portion of the first storey forms a walkway that links two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms at one end. A third bedroom, also with an en-suite bathroom, is located on the other side of this unique space.
Manhattan Beach, situated on the Californian coast just south of Santa Monica, provides the perfect backdrop for this architectural gem. The 30th Street house, with its intriguing geometry, elegant wood cladding, and an artful blend of indoor and outdoor living, stands as a testament to the vision and expertise of Blue Truck Studio.
Captured through the lens of photographer Gregg Segal, this residence is not only a testament to architectural prowess but also a celebration of harmonizing human living spaces with the natural world. It encapsulates the essence of coastal California living, combining elegance, innovation, and a profound connection with the environment.