Pb Elemental's newest house project in Queen Anne (remember the last one we blogged about?) took us a second to get our minds wrapped around it: the walls in the main living space are made almost completely out of translucent polycarbonate sheets, allowing light to come through in large quantity without sacrificing privacy (interior pics after the jump).
The use of the polycarbonate sheets prompted us to really think about the function of windows in our homes — prospect, or the view; light, air circulation and temperature regulation. Most of us rely on the humble window to perform of all of these functions, but PC-1 addresses the thought that perhaps the window is overworked. Unobstructed views of the outside are free to be placed solely where the view is best, without being yoked to the other needs.
However, all the changes in the light due to the weather would soak this house, and those of us familiar with Seattle know that sometimes that grey light, while light nonetheless, can be a bit depressing. We imagine being in this house on one of those days would be like sitting inside of a storm cloud.
Related posts:
• Sterling Residence, The Stranger: 3.13.08
• Pb Elemental
Via: MoCo Loco
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not crazy about the materials and I feel bad for the neighbors next door that have to now look at a concrete tower next to them, no more sunlight for them.
view LoriSF's profile
What I love about this is the way the light comes in without a concern for the view or need for windowcoverings...
...but I believe the R-Value of these panels is fairly low - which isn't great for colder climates.
view bepsf's profile
"PC-1 addresses the thought that perhaps the window is overworked."
Speaking of overworked. The owners have a concrete wall that overshadows their neighbors house. If I lived next door to that thing, I'd buy a paint ball gun and practice often.
So how does air circulation work? You can't open these walls, right? And what about scratching?
view Palmetto's profile
So, I've actually been in this house. The large concrete wall is about to be surrounded by fast growing bamboo to give the neighbors something "green" at which to gaze. (Which is certainly better than the rotting, rat infested monstrosity that was previously on this lot.)
The "windows" have lights built in at their base with the ability to control the "color" of the light, taking away that gloomy grey feeling when necessary.
Also, the house catches rain water and stores it for watering the lawn, etc.
It's a pretty awesome place.
view nikkicole's profile