Tree House
A competition for a two-unit social dwelling
Yale School of Architecture
A collaboration with: Gioia Connell, Max Ouellette-Howitz,
Manasi Punde, Eunice Lee, Will James, Zack Lenza
New Haven, Connecticut
2018
Our proposal for the Yale Building Project competition, a two-unit home for a homeless family and an individual, is generated by three key values: identity, privacy and connection.
A tree-like CLT (cross-laminated timber) structure stretches through the house, creating openings that connect to its surroundings. The structure defines the front and back porches, the living spaces on both unit upper levels, and a tall light-well that naturally illuminates the building. Our tree acts as the primary connection to the outside, and serves as a powerful formal organizer.
The house seeks to provide a place of comfort and security for its residents, while fostering bonds with the surrounding environment.
