17804 Castellammare Dr.

17804 Castellammare represents unique value shrouded in a series of complex physical and entitlement challenges. The upslope lot currently carries a 4,300 sf home built in 1989 and the downslope lot has remained vacant since its incorporation in the 1940s. the lower lot has suffered from geologic attrition as a result of outdated 1940’s soil retention methodologies and the upper home, while structurally sound, has been laid out in a programmatically confusing manner with an unfortunate and misophonic architectural form. However, any future strategy that can navigate these challenges will unlock both physical value and a programmatic dream for its future occupants. 

While providing unique views, the two lots’ hillside orientation creates a practical challenge to interconnectivity and usability for any spaces designed on site. The extreme change in vertical elevation naturally separates both spaces and uses through a series of stairs and paths that exhaust the user and break up programs.