by Leigh Christy

Any telephone user knows how frustrating it is to be "on hold." When an entire design project is put on hold, however, the challenges multiply. Building codes may change, and the architects may develop new design approaches. When the Santa Monica, California firm of Pugh + Scarpa saw a residential design process stretch out to ten years, they treated it, finally, as an opportunity to inject an old project with new ideas.

The Redelco Residence in Studio City, California is a 4,700-square-foot (440-square-meter) replacement for a nondescript 1970s house. The initial design was done in 1994, put on hold, resumed after a seven-year hiatus, dramatically modified, and recently completed. The delayed redesign allowed the architects to lighten up and have some fun with the project — literally and figuratively.

The site is just north of Los Angeles, overlooking the San Fernando Valley. The original house was a modest single-story Southern California "ranch," hidden from the street by a retaining wall and fence.   >>>

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The Redelco Residence in Studio City, California, designed and redesigned by Pugh + Scarpa. Photo: Marvin Rand Glass sliders pull back to showcase views to the San Fernando Valley. Photo: Marvin Rand   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.