The bulk of the house is reduced by partially burying it below grade, but its “floating box” effect is a different story. To achieve it, we elevated the structure, creating a bridge that spans over the first floor. The truss is substantial in height and thus very efficient, it provided a cost-effective solution while maintaining structural integrity. Encompassing the entire floor height and length, the truss eliminated the need for traditional support columns, giving the house its unique suspended appearance.

Carefully placed windows dodge the trusses vertical and diagonal elements. The truss itself was initially considered impractical and costly, but the ALDB team’s familiarity with construction and willingness to take risks proved it viable and efficient.