Nestled in Noe Valley, a San Francisco neighborhood known for its contradictions, rests the Choy Residence, a newly remodeled 1960’s home turned modern dwelling. Terry & Terry Architecture took a decidedly “less is more” approach to the project, literally carving out the 1960’s home’s front entry and center core, straight through to the rear facade. The results of their carefully crafted subtractions is an exterior deck with a view and an entry that allows tremendous amounts of natural daylight to flood the interior spaces while increasing natural ventilation and circulation.
The bands of wood running along the home’s interior and exterior contribute more than visual appeal – they’re part of a double-wall system that allows the exterior panels to breathe and avoid heat build-up. The wood itself is IPE, a sustainably harvested Brazilian Hardwood that has the natural ability to resist mold, rot, and insects without the application of any chemicals.
During the rainy season, the roof of the Choy Residence collects all the runoff and drops it into storage tanks in the basement to be used to irrigate the landscape during the dry season. Provisions have been provided on the north end of the roof, for a soon-to-come solar array that will capture energy whenever the sun shines down on the home.
The residence will be open to the public Saturday, September 13, 2008 through the AIA San Francisco for this year’s annual Architecture and the City Festival. Tickets can be purchased here.
+ Terry & Terry Architecture
+ 2008 Architecture and the City Festival
