casa marbella
Location : lantana, FL
Area : 4,943 S.F.
Phase : design development
Casa Marbella is a testament to resolving issues with a difficult site that has turned all of its constraints into its design. The major design obstacle was to design into a lot that was cut in half lengthwise by a strict 25 ft setback which was considered the front setback. The planning parameters created a fascinating opportunity to create massive front garden with a thin walled facade to create spaces that modulated between the inside and the outside.
The house sits on 1/4 acre lot in a flood prone city at the waters edge in Florida. The house is based on a series of layers that begin with a long procession into the front of the house. The first layer is a garden area which not only separates the house but also creates an organic pause between the inside and outside of the home. The front structure is a transformation of a typical historic porch meant to receive guests and host events at the home. Upon entering the home there is a larger volume which gives a sensation of openness as if the sky that was left behind in the front of the vegetation while the interior entry space connects to a series of complex geometries serving as a transition from the structures interior to the outdoor pool and second floor areas.
The home is a highly efficient with Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) Solid concrete structure with 8 times the wall insulation as required by the strict Florida Building Code. There exterior oscillates between pure native landscape with raw coral stone and stucco evoking a tropical motif. The interior introduces surfaces with contrasting wood and glass for its features sharp modern features. The kitchen, closets and cabinets were supplied by Italy’s famed Molteni & C who plans to make this home a portfolio home for their brand.
