This edition of the Phius Project Spotlight series highlights the Saint Clair single-family project in Studio City, California.
Our May Project Spotlight is well worth the wait as it is the first-ever Phius Certified Phius project in Los Angeles: Saint Clair.
In case you missed it, our monthly Project Spotlights are our way of highlighting the cutting-edge work being done by Phius professionals and providing examples of successful design and construction strategies. We will be featuring projects of various sizes, typologies, and climate zones, offering you a peek behind the curtain of each. The Project Spotlight series will appear in e-blasts to our mailing list (be sure to join if you haven’t already) as well as right here in the Klingenblog.
Saint Clair is the first passive net zero home in Los Angeles to receive Phius Certification. The 3-level new construction home is privately tucked away within an infill lot on a serene cul-de-sac in Studio City, California. The intent was to design a home with a harmonious combination of luxury and eco-conscious living. As one approaches the property, the rooftop planters filled with drought tolerant landscaping that envelop the home set the tone for a design driven by a strong desire to blur the lines between the natural and built environment. The front door is intentionally set back 50 feet from the front property line to create a private and secluded entry. Golden Balau siding along the south and east elevations continue into the living room and frame the entire perimeter of the property. The beauty and durability of this natural, organic and sustainable wood made it an attractive and sensible option.
Designed by Aramyan Kovacs Design and built by Kovacs Design Build, Saint Clair followed Phius building standards with a climate 3B based focus. Builder and Phius Certified Consultant (CPHC®) Kyle Kovacs determined the specifics of the project with a concentration on enhancing the design while fulfilling performance requirements. European lift and slide doors and tilt-turn windows were used to fulfill Phius’ air sealing requirements. Prosoco products were used for water and air barriers in order to seal the envelope. A continuous thermal barrier was accomplished through the use of exterior polyiso and closed cell spray foam. An HRV system by Zehnder serves as the lungs of the house and delivers superior indoor air quality.
Upon entry, you are immediately greeted by natural light flooding in from all angles. The home is designed for full enjoyment of the main level as the communal space, offering multiple opportunities for a seamless indoor/outdoor flow and use of the outdoor spaces as natural and easy extensions of the indoor spaces. Three outdoor spaces connect to the main level – a rooftop deck with mountain views, a courtyard with outdoor fireplace, and a backyard with pool and spa. While the second floor houses the sleeping quarters, the lower level provides another 1,200 square feet of living space. The above-grade lot presented an opportunity to incorporate a lower level with light wells bringing in natural light. This multifunctional space has been intentionally designed to serve many purposes at once. A space where you can do it all – home school, office, gym, theater, recording studio and guest room are all achievable on this level. Being the first of its kind in Los Angeles, Saint Clair serves as a case study to encourage passive net zero building in Southern California.
All images credit to Adam Campbell
