August 2024
Reference
Hollis Faxon
Dume Drive
Nestled in the stunning coastal landscape of Malibu, Dume Drive stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. This unique project emerged from the ashes of the Woolsey Fire, which devastated the area on November 8, 2018, destroying the original home along with all possessions. The homeowners, driven by an unwavering determination to return to their beloved property as quickly as possible, set a clear goal: to reclaim their land without the lengthy displacement often associated with rebuilding. This challenge was met through a creative, three-phase construction approach, allowing them to be among the first in the community to return to their land shortly after the site was decontaminated.
The rebuilding journey began with a "campsite" phase (Phase 0), creating a temporary living arrangement that included a small residential trailer connected to two sheds and a large tent, forming a versatile space for living, working, and schooling. The first significant step, Phase 1, involved constructing a prefabricated guest house off-site, which was quickly installed and served as a comfortable home base while plans for the main house were finalized. With the guest house in place, the focus shifted to Phase 2: designing, planning, and obtaining the necessary approvals for a new, permanent residence at the back of the property, strategically positioned to optimize the site's natural advantages.
Architecturally, Dume Drive was conceived to harmonize with its surroundings while offering protection from the region's prevailing winds. The main house is designed in an L-shape, with its arrow-like orientation facing the strong ocean breezes. This design strategically shields the courtyard, decks, and pool area, creating a tranquil, sheltered outdoor space. Situated at the western edge of the property, the residence maximizes the use of the protected outdoor area on the leeward side, while a pool house positioned to the east enhances the sense of enclosure and intimacy within the courtyard.
Inside, the house is structured around two main volumes, which accommodate private spaces at their extremities and public areas at their intersection. The design emphasizes openness and togetherness, with three bedrooms and a multipurpose den concentrated in smaller, intimate areas. At the same time, a substantial portion of the main house is devoted to a continuous, flowing public space. Large, frameless glass walls and sliding doors from Sky-Frame blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, providing unobstructed views of the ocean and enabling seamless transitions between indoor living areas, a covered patio, and the pool deck.
The material palette throughout Dume Drive is intentionally minimal, focusing on a few carefully selected elements to accentuate light and spatial relationships. Natural oak floors, plaster-finished walls, cedar ceilings, and bespoke concrete countertops create a sophisticated yet restrained aesthetic. Skylights strategically placed throughout the home, including a dramatic three-meter-long skylight in the kitchen, amplify the interplay of light and materials, enhancing the home's overall ambience.
Exterior elements, like the red balau decks that will weather to a silver-grey and the seamless integration of the Sky-Frame sliding door system, further emphasize the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Smooth concrete plaster in a dark grey tone provides a refined backdrop. At the same time, vertically clad cedar accents bring warmth and contrast, completing the architectural vision of Dume Drive. This home not only recovers what was lost but also celebrates the beauty of its environment.
