High in the mountains above Malibu at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Sweetwater Mesa poetically rests at the nexus of the earth, sky, and water. Its undulating landscape is formed by microclimates of diverse vegetation, climate, and topography with expansive views to the Pacific Ocean, Malibu, and Los Angeles. Vulnerable to sun, wind, and fire, the site topography is characterized by rock outcroppings, low-lying brush, slopes and ravines. The 160-acre property is separated into five parcels that absorb their distinct surroundings marked by boundaries of Ocean, Meadow, Cliff, and Mountain zones.

The project included site masterplanning and the conceptual design for five single-family residences. The individual homes establish a cohesive relationship between the site and its occupants. The dwellings arise from the land and are conceived as ‘instruments’ for interpreting the landscape that capture and intensify specific site qualities. The site is traversed via footpath that carves sinuously through the terrain uniting scattered natural features and the dwellings.

C O L L A B O R A T O R S

Andrew Scott and John Fernandez | Pamela Burton & Co. Landscape

How can we create a campus feel with the design of a large single office building?

This six-story corporate headquarters is situated on a plinth nestled within a native hillside landscape and the first of a multi-building campus. The building is paired with the parking structure to create an internal pedestrian street between the two and articulated to amplify interactions within the space. Building facades directly respond to the unique site conditions and distant views. They are composed of natural stone, metal panels and low-iron glass to maximize interior daylighting. With significant exposure to the adjacent interstate, the building reveals the interior spaces symbolizing the openness of the company and their service.

Chris Johns served as the Project Manager and Designer for this project while working for ARCHITECTS hanna gabriel wells.

H I G H L I G H T S

• LEED Gold Certified

• Class-A Office

• Structural Glazing With Glass Fins