The Gehry House: Santa Monica, is a critique of the stereotypically closed of and separated suburban household. Frank Gehry approaches this design in two significant ways, firstly through breaking the traditional suburban barrier of an exterior fence or wall, and secondly through focussing the house on the back garden, both through circulation and the raising of the house.
Material Study: Glazing (Breaking of the Barrier)
The first aspect of this study is an axonometric of the house and it's stereotypical urban 'surroundings'. The manipulation of the boundaries is highlighted and the glazing is detailed to introduce its significance. Both models highlight and explore the way in which light travels between the interior and exterior (from a nearby streetlamp); the first abstractly portraying the transition and merging of interior (private) and exterior (public) while the second model aims to explore the different patterns of light that would penetrate the exterior, to enhance the interior life.
Circulation:
The circulation of the house runs in three main lateral lines moving from the front of the house to the very significant backgarden, reflected in both the ground and first floor movement strategies (Shown in the first study, the exploded axonometric). The second aspect explores a particular line of movement through the kitchen and dining room towards the stripped back facade that faces the garden. Finally, the model highlights these lines of movement, exploring it in a similar way to the first study; as a movement from darkness and enclosure into light and expansive space.
Psycological Study: (The Two Main Rooms)
The most central lines of circulation in both the ground and first levels lead to moments of rest, examination and peace (The Sitting Room and the Main bedroom). The first study of these rooms is a sketch of both rooms, with the background of the intricate studwork openings showing the Santa Monica Hills. This aimed to highlight the role of these rooms as places of rest, reflection and onlooking over a garden below; that, although on a suburban scale, stretches out beyond the tight and intricate interior. The second drawing shows a sectional axonometric showing their relationship within the house, and also their height above the back walkway and garden below. Finally, the model takes this idea, and represents this through a connection with ancient castles; surrounded by battlements (the exterior wrapping), the king's rooms and throne look out upon the kingdom below.
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