Hayvenhurst Folie in Encino, California by NEW THEME Inc.

Article source:  NEW THEME Inc. 

Originally contracted to restore a family’s mid-century home in Encino, California, NEW THEME Inc. was brought on to develop an inspirational, unique and didactic playhouse for the family’s children. The playhouse was inspired by the concept of a “folie”, which, amongst its many meanings, also refers to a small structure popular in France for recreational purposes. By naming it the “Hayvenhurst Folie”, it signifies an escape from not only the main house but also the energy grid of the neighborhood. The structure utilizes significant sustainable systems to achieve an off-the-grid energy profile that provides a scalable model of energy responsibility.

Image Courtesy © NEW THEME Inc.

• Architects: NEW THEME Inc.
• Project: Hayvenhurst Folie
• Location: Encino, California, US

Image Courtesy © NEW THEME Inc.

The Folie’s design extracts and reinvents many elements of the family’s main house in order to pursue a strong relationship between both structures. The Folie’s white roof echoes that of the main house, and is positioned in a way to allow softened light enter from the canopy of trees above, creating a magical or dream-like effect. Situated on a steep slope, the Folie must be accessed via staircase, suggestive of a tree house, which further enhances the mood of escape.

Image Courtesy © NEW THEME Inc.

Framed with reclaimed Douglas fir and featuring walls built of FSC-certified plywood, the Folie exhibits sustainable construction practices that also aid its energy profile. The sloped roof allows for natural irrigation of the garden via rainfall, and the opening of the structure is positioned towards a geographic intersection to ensure maximum breeze and natural ventilation. On top of the roof are three 175 volt solar panels that are capable of powering two laptops. In order to guarantee efficient and sustained energy usage, the Folie features an interior energy monitor that displays the available power output of the solar panels. Thus, the playhouse requires its inhabitants to gain an awareness of energy usage and instills a fundamental lesson in conservation for children as well as adults.

Image Courtesy © NEW THEME Inc.

Image Courtesy © NEW THEME Inc.

Tags: California, US

Category: Resort

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