A Playful, Modern Blend of Geometry and Generations

  September 10, 2024
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Cover Architecture, a Los Angeles-based firm, has introduced a fresh take on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) with their recent project, the Moongate ADU. Situated in a quiet neighborhood of Altadena, the 620-square-foot residence features an eye-catching sculptural facade and a creative blend of geometric forms, making it stand out as a modern addition to a 1960s ranch-style property.

The ADU was designed by Mike Wang, principal architect at Cover Architecture, for his mother, Pei, and her partner, Dan – both former professors. The dwelling is intended to offer them a comfortable space to enjoy their retirement while staying close to Wang’s family in the main house. Unlike traditional layouts where an ADU might be tucked away behind the main house, the Moongate ADU is prominently positioned at the front of the lot. This unconventional placement creates a striking contrast with the original single-story home, which is located at the back of the property, near a ravine that overlooks Hahamongna Watershed Park.

A person sits in a circular opening of a white wall, reading a book in a modern architectural setting with a green door in the background.

A child in pink pants and a white shirt reclines inside a circular opening of a white modern building with green-framed windows.

The architectural choices for the ADU emphasize a dynamic interplay between old and new, ordinary and extraordinary. The design incorporates a sloped partition wall with a large circular opening that creates both a sense of mystery and a sense of openness. This wall, along with a raised foundation that requires stairs and a deck, forms an inviting outdoor space perfect for relaxation and reading. The ADU’s roof features eaves that curve in harmony with the circular motif, allowing natural light to flow into the living spaces.

A modern architectural pathway with curved white walls, a circular cutout, wooden flooring, and green plants, leading to an outdoor area under a clear sky.

A modern white building with curved walls, an arch, and a deck, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.

The integration of different forms and voids across the facade is primarily influenced by functional needs. The pathway leading from the ADU to an adjacent storage structure forms a central courtyard, creating a shared outdoor space that connects all three structures on the property – the ADU, the storage unit, and the main house. This layout is thoughtfully designed to foster intergenerational living, allowing both privacy and communal spaces for different family members to enjoy.

A sunlit living room features a white sofa with yellow pillows, a wooden coffee table with plants, large windows, and an open door leading to a wooden deck with shoes placed near the entrance.

A bright living room with a large window, modern furniture including a white sofa, wooden chairs, a low cabinet, and abstract art on the wall. A potted plant stands in the corner, and a pouf and small stool are on the rug.

Inside, the Moongate ADU continues the theme of playful geometry and simplicity. The interior design features a mix of light and natural materials, with details such as rounded knobs on Baltic birch plywood cabinetry lending a soft, tactile feel. The kitchen counter is made of Pietra Artica Marble, while the bathroom vanity is topped with onyx marble, adding a refined touch to the overall aesthetic. The layout remains relatively straightforward, with a well-defined living area, kitchen, bathroom, sleeping space, and a small office nook for continued work – making it a comfortable and functional living environment.

A minimalist kitchen and living area with light wood cabinets, a gray countertop, wicker bar stools, and two woven chairs. A hanging plant decorates the space. A hallway leads to another room.

Modern kitchen with light wood cabinets, grey countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Two wicker stools are placed at the island, and hanging plants add a touch of greenery.

A minimalist bedroom featuring a bed with a white duvet, a small nightstand with a lamp, and a large beige curtain separating the room from an adjacent sink area. The floor is wooden.

A minimalist bedroom with a white bed, light wood floors, a side table with a plant and a vase, and a modern light fixture. A small painting hangs on the wall near a window with a wooden frame.

A small home office with a built-in wooden desk, open shelves holding various items, and a white wire chair. A laptop, notebook, and decorative objects are on the desk. Light wooden flooring.

A modern bathroom with natural light, featuring a marble-top vanity, gold fixtures, an oval mirror, a glass-enclosed shower, and a skylight overhead.

A modern outdoor space featuring two minimalist buildings, a stone pathway, and greenery including trees and shrubs. A blue chair and a small table are situated on the gravel area.

Modern white house with flat roofs, large windows, and a circular cut-out detail, surrounded by trees and greenery, with mountains visible in the background.

Modern white house with geometric design features, including a large circular cutout in the exterior wall. The façade is minimalistic, and the house is surrounded by trees. The driveway is paved with tiles.

For more information on Cover Architecture, head to coverarch.com.

Photography by Leonid Furmansky.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.





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