PORTLA VALLEY RESIDENCE

【CLIENT】

Private Residence- new construction

【PLACE + TIME】

Portola Valley, CA / 2018

【PROJECT TEAM】

BWC  ✦  Custom Ceiling Design, VDC, DFMA, & Fabrication

【MADE IN OUR SHOP】

Ceiling with integrated lighting prototype system, floor diffuser grill systems

Our studio was brought onto this project midway through the construction process to assist with the coordination and resolution of existing challenges. We were tasked with taking the existing 2D CAD drawings, hand-drawn sketches, and as-built conditions of the in-progress construction and integrating them into a comprehensive BIM model. This involved acting as a Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) partner, utilizing real-time 3D walkthroughs and virtual reality (VR) to identify and work with the construction team to resolve some complex existing struggles around the concrete, glass, steel, and utility conflicts the project was having.

A key component of our scope involved the design, rationalization, and prototyping of an organically-shaped slat ceiling system with integrated lighting that would be installed throughout the entire house. This complex ceiling system required careful coordination with the existing structure and other building systems.

Below is a sample of the ceiling plans, rationalized for easy fabrication & installation.

To ensure the design intent was met and the ceiling could be installed as planned, we developed a detailed prototype that was used to test the feasibility of the design and fabrication process.

In addition to the ceiling system, we also leveraged our in-house fabrication shop to produce various custom elements for the project. These included an integrated floor grill HVAC/electrical system, custom door units, and other bespoke elements that the contractor was unable to produce. By utilizing our in-house fabrication capabilities, we were able to maintain control over the quality and schedule of these critical elements, ensuring they were delivered and installed on time and met the project's high standards.

The below drawing shows the installation details for the ceiling panels with integrated lighting hung throughout the house.

The stairway and connecting hallway are adorned with slat walls that cover the wall from ceiling to the floor, establishing a sense of visual continuity and architectural drama as you transition between spaces. This design element not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area but also subtly guides the eye, creating a sense of movement and direction.