In a fascinating journey of tenacity and creativity, acclaimed architect Andrew Liang built the home at 5819 Cazaux in Los Feliz. A masterpiece of contemporary design, the residence is now listed for sale by William Baker, Director of Architecture at The Agency.
Taking nearly a decade from concept to completion, Lianne infused the three-story, four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home with her unique vision and meticulous attention to detail. Today, Andrew describes the home's aesthetic in simple yet powerful words: “contemporary, sensual, tactile and bold.” It's no surprise that the design world has taken notice; 5819 Cazaux is currently shortlisted for four industry awards.
As founder and creative director of Liang Architecture Bureau+ (LAB+), Liang's expertise and commitment to thoughtful, serene design is evident in every detail of this residence. Explore the inspirations, challenges, and features of this extraordinary home in this Q&A with Andrew Liang.
As an architect and designer, what mood and feel did you want to achieve in this home?
I wanted to create an atmosphere that was relaxing, ritualistic, meditative and tranquil.
This home is located in Los Feliz, what features or elements make this home unique in this market?
This home is located on an uphill lot in the Oaks neighborhood of the Hollywood Hills, adjacent to Los Feliz. It sits at the end of a short street, giving it privacy. It is very quiet, but access is not an issue. There are no narrow, difficult to navigate streets. It also offers expansive 240 degree views of the surrounding hills surrounding the Hollywood sign.
What is the most interesting or unusual green or sustainable feature of this home?
The central atrium serves as a source of natural light as well as ventilation and cooling. The home is designed to take advantage of southwest to northeast winds, which, combined with the central atrium, allow for passive cooling during warmer months. The home's mechanical heating and cooling is managed by a two-stage hydronic heating, micro-zone system driven by two heat pumps. An 8 kW rooftop solar system supplies the home's power needs during the day and sends unused generated power back to the grid.
What is your favourite place in the house and why?
Each space has its own personality and quality: some offer spectacular views, others encourage gatherings and socializing, others offer private and contemplative moments. The entrance sequence, where visitors are first ushered into the atrium space, halfway between indoors and outdoors, is perhaps the most surprising moment in the home.
What architectural features can you name that set this home apart from other properties in Hollywood Hills, and how do these features enhance your daily life?
The site's natural orientation allows it to take full advantage of the changing solar orientation throughout the day and the spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The architectural concrete structure with vertical board form finishes offers robust structure and tactile beauty, which contrasts and complements the natural material ensemble. A central glass atrium is the primary design element providing ventilation and a kaleidoscope directing ever-changing natural light throughout the day into the interior spaces. A cantilevered concrete roof covers a large glass corner sliding door system as the home's formal design feature.
Are there special outdoor living spaces or landscaping elements designed to complement the home's sustainable features?
Outdoor living spaces include a second-floor main dining patio with facilities for an outdoor kitchen, a private patio off the main bedroom suite with a fireplace, and an avenue of olive trees that runs the entire length of the home on the third floor.
If you would like more information about this home or to arrange a private tour, please contact William Baker.