Case Study
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SUBTERRANEAN
The Obsidian Pavilion
Scope
Integrated Fire Architecture & Sunken Lounge
Location
Aspen, CO
Date
Status
Completed Commission
ARCHITECTURAL INTENT
A masterclass in dark minimalism, sinking luxury into the rugged Malibu topography.
The Obsidian Pavilion is defined by its dramatic relationship with the descending hillside. To preserve the coastal views from the main residence above, the entire structure was conceived as a monolithic, subterranean intervention.
The pavilion is carved into the terrain, clad in dark metal and blackened timber to absorb the intense Southern California light and disappear into the native chaparral.
The central feature is the seamless integration of a 50-foot infinity-edge lap pool that wraps around a recessed, dark concrete fire plinth.
By sinking the lounge space below the water line, we created an intimate, primal environment where the elements of fire and water are experienced simultaneously at eye level, set against the backdrop of the rugged Santa Monica Mountains.
Materiality:
Blackened Steel, Charred Cedar (Shou Sugi Ban), Polished Concrete, Smoked Glass
Water Feature:
Wet-Edge Infinity Pool, Linear Fire Plinth Reflection
Surface Area:
1,200 sq ft
Spatial Study
