Architecture Wednesday: Phoenix House

Brutalist architecture is characterized by minimalist construction showcasing bare building materials and structural elements over decorative design. Brutalism  commonly makes use of exposed, unpainted concrete or brick, steel, timber and glass, angular geometric shapes and a predominantly monochromatic color palette.

This brutalist masterpiece is in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, near San Diego, and is all of those things and more. Designed by Sebastian Mariscal and dubbed Phoenix House, the three-bedroom dwelling helped Mariscal win the first of three Record House designations when it was completed in 2012., While its façade appears bare and bleak, the 5,616 square foot home evolves entirely around expansive greenery and ocean views. Board-formed concrete interiors open onto outdoor spaces, from a rooftop deck with an outdoor kitchen to breezy balconies, a courtyard garden and a pool, most of which have views of the Pacific Ocean.

Mariscal’s use of tactile concrete walls and slate flooring softened by walnut and mahogany cabinetry and sunlight flooding in through skylights, clerestory openings and apertures that curate views and channel sunshine into the deepest recesses of the five-bedroom home.

The main living space overlooks Cardiff’s familiar but always beautiful Pacific Ocean while the master suite gazes into the peaceful yard and pool area. In the midst of it all, centered between the private walls, is an interior garden, a true focal point of the home.

I’ve always found Brutalism interesting, but rather bleak and institutional, but this house, the way it opens to the views and the greenery and the light, really suits me. Plus, it’s located in the heart of Cardiff's Composer District, on Brahms Road—the most undiscovered, tucked away street, parallel to Rossini Canyon—and feels secluded from the buzzing beach town but is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, entertainment and the beaches.

And it can be yours for $10M.

The Spaces